Alexander Calder (American, 1898-1976) Ben Hur

Description:

Alexander Calder (American, 1898-1976)

Ben Hur
Signed "Calder" l.r., titled l.c., inscribed "Ben Hurry" u.c. in a banner within the
composition, inscribed in pencil indistinctly on the reverse.
Ink on paper, 19 1/8 x 24 7/8 in. (48.5 x 63.3 cm),framed.
Condition: Restored tears to the edges of the sheet corresponding to eight patches around the perimeter of the reverse, nicks and small tears along the edges, crease to l.l. side, handling creases, toning overall with acid burn to the edges of the sheet, soiling, four old brown paper tape hinges to the reverse.

N.B. Calder Foundation Application Number A26695. The Calder Foundation dates this drawing to 1931.


Estimate $10,000-15,000

Two detached brown paper hinges, one with a small fragment of the drawing attached; both hinges saved in a separate envelope from the drawing. Pencil inscription on the reverse appears to read, " 3/...vii" but the inscription is very faint and difficult to discern. The reverse is more toned than the front of the sheet.

Drawing was unframed for inspection by the Calder Foundation, and due to the poor hinges, it has not been reframed. The drawing was originally hinged to the window mat. The frame in which the drawing came is available for inspection and accompanies the lot.


The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.