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Rude Osolnik, Five Candlesticks, 1988, mascassar ebony, 6 1⁄4 — 14 1⁄4 in. x 2 3⁄8 in. diam. (36.2 x 6.1 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Fleur and Charles Bresler in honor of Kenneth R. Trapp, curator-in-charge of the Renwick Gallery (1995−−2003), 2003.60.44A-E
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Artwork Details
- Title
- Five Candlesticks
- Artist
- Date
- 1988
- Location
- Not on view
- Dimensions
- 6 1⁄4 — 14 1⁄4 in. x 2 3⁄8 in. diam. (36.2 x 6.1 cm)
- Markings
- underside of base, written on felt in ink, on each: (two interlocked O's - artist's monogram)
- Credit Line
- Gift of Fleur and Charles Bresler in honor of Kenneth R. Trapp, curator-in-charge of the Renwick Gallery (1995−−2003)
- Mediums
- Mediums Description
- mascassar ebony
- Classifications
- Object Number
- 2003.60.44A-E
Artwork Description
Rude Osolnik's candlesticks were his trademark production pieces. He created more than one hundred and fifty thousand during the 1950s and 1960s for various department stores. Their simple, elegant silhouettes are perfectly balanced and flow with the gentle grain of the dark macassar ebony. Osolnik didn't switch his lathe off between pieces, preferring not to waste time, and he perfected his production of candlesticks to such a point that he could produce forty before breakfast.
Luce Object Quote
"Design should be a simplified whole that balances ornament against plain surface." Rude Osolnik, 1985