Untitled

Johannes Michelsen, Untitled, 1990, spalted maple burl with lacquer, 24 ¹⁄₂ x 15 ¹⁄₂ in. (62.3 x 39.4 cm) diam., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of George Peter Lamb and Lucy Scardino in memory of Natalie Rust Lamb, 1995.100.22

Artwork Details

Title: Untitled
Artist: Johannes Michelsen
Date: 1990
Location: Not on view
Dimensions: 24 ¹⁄₂ x 15 ¹⁄₂ in. (62.3 x 39.4 cm) diam.
Credit Line: Gift of George Peter Lamb and Lucy Scardino in memory of Natalie Rust Lamb
Mediums: maple
Mediums Description: spalted maple burl with lacquer
Classifications: Decorative Arts
Object Number: 1995.100.22
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1995.100.22

Artwork Description

Johannes Michelsen has thickly painted the bulbous base of this piece to give a gleaming finish. The bare wood appears to grow from this rounded form, and the dramatic stripes of grain stand out against the muted blue. Michelsen explores different surfaces within his turned forms and enjoys combining perfect finishes with natural edges and rough texture.