Kinetic Brooch

Fridl M. Blumenthal, Kinetic Brooch, ca. 1990, 18k gold, chrysoprase cabochons, and baroque pearl, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist in memory of her husband, Bernhard Blumenthal, 1994.116, © 1990, Fridl M. Blumenthal
Copied Fridl M. Blumenthal, Kinetic Brooch, ca. 1990, 18k gold, chrysoprase cabochons, and baroque pearl, 2 782 1414 in. (7.45.9 x .5 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist in memory of her husband, Bernhard Blumenthal, 1994.116, © 1990, Fridl M. Blumenthal

Artwork Details

Title
Kinetic Brooch
Date
ca. 1990
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
2 782 1414 in. (7.45.9 x .5 cm.)
Copyright
© 1990, Fridl M. Blumenthal
Credit Line
Gift of the artist in memory of her husband, Bernhard Blumenthal
Mediums Description
18k gold, chrysoprase cabochons, and baroque pearl
Classifications
Object Number
1994.116

Artwork Description

Fridl Blumenthal says that “the stone tells me what to do with it.” Kinetic Brooch is made with chrysoprase, a rare quartz known for its bright green color and waxy luster, qualities that are emphasized by the rounded “cabochon” cut. The title comes from the design, which allows the cabochons to be repositioned along their V-shaped track, changing the design of the brooch according to the wishes of the wearer.