Alexander Calder

Gift of the artist to the present owner in 1960

This work is in very good and sound condition overall. The elements move smoothly and freely. There are scattered minor areas of paint loss along the base particularly along the edges, and some scattered pinpoint spot, drip and media accretions are visible on the base and brass element. Under very close inspection, some scattered spots of loss are visible along the wire and there are some scattered brown pinpoint spot accretions in the white mobile elements. Under raking light, a few very faint and unobtrusive surface abrasions are scattered throughout.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

"Sandy Calder—an artist who combines philosophy and fun, precision and abandon, vagaries and permanence in his own personal brand of sculpture. Who else has given us so much delight with so little pomposity? Who else can make snowflakes tremble and an acoustic ceiling float in cloud-like majesty? No other American artist has so brilliantly mirrored the optimism and sly humor of our country."

Katherine Kuh cited in Exh. Cat., New York, Whitney Museum of American Art, Calder's Universe, 1976, p. 25