Backpack Box

Copied Stuart Golder, Backpack Box, 1979, sterling silver, 18k gold, and copper, 7⁄8 x 7⁄8 x 3⁄4 in. (2.2 x 2.1 x 1.9 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Paul and Carole Garrison, 2000.41.3, © 1970-78, Stuart Golder

Artwork Details

Title
Backpack Box
Artist
Date
1979
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
7⁄8 x 7⁄8 x 3⁄4 in. (2.2 x 2.1 x 1.9 cm)
Markings
signature engraved into underside of lid: Stuart Golder on underside of lid, above the signature: (maker's mark)
Copyright
© 1970-78, Stuart Golder
Credit Line
Gift of Paul and Carole Garrison
Mediums
Mediums Description
sterling silver, 18k gold, and copper
Classifications
Object Number
2000.41.3
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/2000.41.3

Artwork Description

These fifteen miniature containers (see 2000.41.1 to 2000.41.15) are part of a series of twenty-eight boxes that Stuart Golder created from 1970 to 1978, each one unique and no more than an inch in size. His technique involved bending the sheet metal, while other parts were formed, sawed, filed, shaped to fit, and soldered. He completed the surface finish by filing, sanding, and mirror polishing with an electric buffer, and he crafted the hinges and catches by hand. Many people asked him why he spent eight years on this project. He replied, "the preciousness of the form and the ability to hold a small universe in ones hands always intrigued me."
Luce Object Quote
"From an early age I was exposed to my parent's collection of snuff bottles and boxes composed of a variety of materials." Artist's statement