Harry Bertoia

Collection of the artist
Ihlenfeld Collection
Wright Chicago, December 8, 2002, lot 168

Nancy N. Schiffer and Val O. Bertoia, The World of Bertoia, Atglen, PA, 2003, p. 176 (for a related prototype)

Overall in very good original condition. This early sculpture is a tree study and predates the sounding sculptures by Bertoia. As such, the piece displays the movement that precipitated many elements of the later sound sculptures. The surfaces throughout have acquired a beautiful aged patina. With some minor surface dirt to the recessed portion of the design. The base with some surface dirt and oxidation consistent with the natural aging process of the material as seen in the catalogue illustration. A few very minor bends to approximately eights of the rods in this sculpture, likely from gentle handling and only visible on close inspection. This unusual early work displays impressive movement and scale foreshadowing the sound sculptures that Bertoia began about 10 years later.
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.

IN CONTEXT:
The vertical-rod forms started out as architectural studies in the 1960s of how a single tree-like stem would become many stems flowing in the wind.  At first, it was simply to see the gentle swaying motion as a kinetic sculpture.  By the late 1960s, Harry discovered this motion could also create metallic sounds.

— Val Bertoia