Prayer

Seymour Lipton, Prayer, 1977, monel/brazed with nickel-silver on limestone base, 8 ¹⁄₈ x 8 ⁵⁄₈ x 5 ¹⁄₄ in. (20.7 x 22.0 x 13.3 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mr. Seymour Lipton, 1978.127.3

Artwork Details

Title: Prayer
Artist: Seymour Lipton
Date: 1977
Location: Smithsonian American Art Museum
/
Luce Foundation Center
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4th Floor
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50A
Dimensions: 8 ¹⁄₈ x 8 ⁵⁄₈ x 5 ¹⁄₄ in. (20.7 x 22.0 x 13.3 cm.)
Credit Line: Gift of Mr. Seymour Lipton
Mediums: monel
nickel silver
limestone
Mediums Description: monel/brazed with nickel-silver on limestone base
Classifications: Sculpture
Subjects: Abstract
Object Number: 1978.127.3
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1978.127.3

Artwork Description

Seymour Lipton adopted the surrealist technique of free association, making numerous rough drawings in crayon to explore different combinations of shapes without a coherent plan. These shapes were then cut from sheet steel or Monel, a type of white bronze, and welded into place. The rough metal, sharp corners, and visible welds give the piece a raw, unfinished appearance.