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John Safer, Chandelle, 1969, revised 2013, Lucite, 77 in. (195.6 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist, 2007.23
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Artwork Details
- Title
- Chandelle
- Artist
- Date
- 1969, revised 2013
- Location
- Not on view
- Dimensions
- 77 in. (195.6 cm)
- Credit Line
- Gift of the artist
- Mediums Description
- Lucite
- Classifications
- Object Number
- 2007.23
Artwork Description
Luce Center Label
The French word chandelle means "candle," and this sculpture, although not strictly representational, evokes the form of a flickering flame. As the viewer walks by the piece the changing shape of a flame can be imagined in the reflections of light in the polished black Lucite and through the sculpture's deceptively tapering form. The title of this work may also indicate John Safer's knowledge of aviation gained in the Air Force. A chandelle is an aircraft control maneuver in which the pilot combines a 180-degree turn with a sudden climb. Viewed from the side, Chandelle's form appears to capture the essential movement of this maneuver.