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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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