About this artwork
In 1930 Russel Wright established a workshop in New York City and began producing informal serving accessories, including this cocktail service. His design reveals the great allure that streamlined forms had during the 1930s: one reviewer commented that “cylindrical and spherical forms are indicative of the speed of our age.” Wright nonetheless incorporated practical features into his design; his workshop marketed these aluminum accessories as “featherweight,” so that “even the frailest hostess finds no difficulty in handling” them. In addition, the cork feet of the glasses provide built-in coasters, while the shaker’s cork-covered neck doubles as an insulated handle. Despite Wright’s goal of reaching a wide audience through mass production, his Cocktail Set was completely handmade, and great variations exist between known examples.
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Status
- On View, Gallery 264
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Department
- Arts of the Americas
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Artist
- Russel Wright
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Title
- Cocktail Set, Model 26
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Place
- United States (Object made in)
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Date
- 1930
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Medium
- Spun aluminum and cork
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Dimensions
- Tray: 29.2 × 15.2 cm (11 1/2 × 6 in.); Shaker: 29.2 × 15.2 cm (11 1/2 × 6 in.); Cups, ea: 14.9 × 7.3 cm (5 7/8 × 2 7/8 in.)
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Credit Line
- Through prior bequest of Arthur Rubloff
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Reference Number
- 2009.1035.1-8
Extended information about this artwork
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