Alexander Calder

Collection of Virginia Caldwell, Medford, Oregon (gift of the artist in 1976)
Private Collection, Oregon (gift of the above in 2011)
Sotheby's, New York, 22 September 2011, Lot 4
Acquired from the above sale by the present owner

Hong Kong, Sotheby's S2, Calder: Imagining the Universe, September 2015, cat. no. 4, p. 19, illustrated in color

This work is in very good and sound condition overall. All of the elements move smoothly and freely. Under very close inspection, the wire is exhibits minor spots of rusting and there are scattered pinpoint and unobtrusive brown and white spot accretions on the elements, most notably on the largest circular element, and evidence of light soiling on each element.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

"Sculpture suggests motion, painting suggests light or space. Calder suggests nothing, he fashions real, living motions which he has captured. His mobiles signify nothing, refer to nothing but themselves: they are, that is all: they are absolutes....These motions, which are meant only to please, to enchant the eye, have nevertheless a profound meaning, a metaphysical one."
Jean-Paul Sartre, "Existentialist on Mobilist," ARTNews, Vol. 46, No. 22, December 1947

This work is registered in the archives of the Calder Foundation, New York, under application number A23149.