Split Ellipse

Copied Michael N. Graham, Split Ellipse, 1988, bleached maple and flock, 3 7⁄8 x 15 3⁄4 x 7 1⁄2 in. (9.9 x 40.0 x 19.2 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of George Peter Lamb and Lucy Scardino in memory of Natalie Rust Lamb, 1995.100.9A-B

Artwork Details

Title
Split Ellipse
Artist
Date
1988
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
3 7⁄8 x 15 3⁄4 x 7 1⁄2 in. (9.9 x 40.0 x 19.2 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of George Peter Lamb and Lucy Scardino in memory of Natalie Rust Lamb
Mediums
Mediums Description
bleached maple and flock
Classifications
Object Number
1995.100.9A-B
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1995.100.9A-B

Artwork Description

At first glance, Split Ellipse appears to be a solid piece of carved maple, but a closer look reveals a concealed drawer that pulls out from one end. The smooth, pale wood, with its subtle grain and rounded edges, resembles a piece of driftwood washed up on the beach and masks the time and skill that Michael Graham lavished on the simple shape. The secret drawer lined with rich, dark fabric suggests that this strangely shaped object should hold valuable jewelry or richly colored gems.