Golden Shell

William Hunter, Golden Shell, 1994, satinwood, 3 ⁷⁄₈ x 4 ¹⁄₄ x 5 in. diam. (9.9 x 10.8 x 12.6 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), 2003.60.24, © 1994, William Hunter

Artwork Details

Title: Golden Shell
Artist: William Hunter
Date: 1994
Location: Not on view
Dimensions: 3 ⁷⁄₈ x 4 ¹⁄₄ x 5 in. diam. (9.9 x 10.8 x 12.6 cm)
Copyright: © 1994, William Hunter
Credit Line: Gift of Fleur and Charles Bresler in honor of Kenneth R. Trapp, curator-in-charge of the Renwick Gallery (1995−−2003)
Mediums: satinwood
Mediums Description: satinwood
Classifications: Decorative Arts
Object Number: 2003.60.24
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/2003.60.24

Artwork Description

William Hunter has worked with ivory and amber in the past but now favors tropical woods for their unusual patterns and ability to retain fine detail. He uses the wood's natural form to inspire his pieces and follows the pattern of the grain with his signature swirls and spirals.