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Private Affair I

Very tall sculpture of braided, knotted, and twisted strands of hemp fabric arranged to make a cylindrical shape, with loose ends that pool out at the base.

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  • Very tall sculpture of braided, knotted, and twisted strands of hemp fabric arranged to make a cylindrical shape, with loose ends that pool out at the base.

Date:

1986

Artist:

Claire Zeisler (American, 1903–1991)
Chicago, United States

About this artwork

The noted Chicago artist Claire Zeisler was a sculptor who, worked off the loom, handled fiber as others handle wood, metal or stone. In this work, a cascade of tightly knotted and wrapped strands of natural hemp falls into a whorl of loose ends that form the base. The simplicity of the natural hemp is enhanced by the flawless craftsmanship, which was inspired by Pre-Columbian textile techniques and the American Indian woven baskets Zeisler collected throughout her life.

Status

Currently Off View

Department

Textiles

Artists

Claire Zeisler , Claire Zeisler Studio (Executor)

Title

Private Affair I

Places

Chicago (Object made in), United States (Object made in), Illinois (Object made in)

Date

Made 1986

Medium

Hemp, knotting technique known as macramé (multiple chain knots), twisted and wrapped cords; cut fringe

Dimensions

Approx. spill: Diam.: 228.6 cm (90 in.); Approx: H.: 320 cm (126 in.)

Credit Line

Marian and Samuel Klasstorner Endowment

Reference Number

1986.1050a-vv

Extended information about this artwork

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.

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