Snake
Artist
Alexander Calder
(American, 1898-1976)
CultureAmerican
Date1975
MediumJute | Dye
DimensionsOverall: 72 1/2 x 95 3/4 in. (184.2 x 243.2 cm)
Credit LineGift of Dr. Rajendra P. Sood
Object number78.610.3
Not on view
Label TextDesigned by Alexander Calder
American (1898-1976)
Tapestries, 1975
Dyed jute, 57/100
Gift of Dr. Rajendra P. Snood
Alexander Calder was one of the most brilliantly inventive artists of the 20th century. Though he is best remembered for his sculpture, and particularly for his mobiles, he produced a variety of other works during his extraordinarily prolific career. These included paintings, lithographs, jewelry, toys, and designs for limited edition textiles like the fanciful jute tapestries displayed here.
Long impressed by the work of Central America's artisans, in 1975 Calder designed a set of ten tapestries which were executed by Nicaraguan weavers. Using special European dyes to match the artist's signature palette of bold, primary hues, the artisans employed teams of weavers and hundreds of needles to complete the project. The tapestries feature the flowing, natural motifs and whimsical circus imagery-spiraling nautilus shells, undulating snakes, a trapeze performer-that are the hallmarks of Calder's best graphic work. Designed to be used both as wall hangings and floor mats, the tapestries pleased Calder so much that he acquired several for his own home and studio.
Exhibition History"Calder's Ten Tapestries," Chrysler Museum, Norfolk, VA, June 9 - July 9, 1978.
Published ReferencesThomas W. Styron, "Calder's TEN TAPESTIRES Exhibit Due in June (Summer 1978), n.p.
