Lot 437: John Chamberlain Crushed Metal Sculpture / Template, T.V. Christmas

John Angus Chamberlain (1927-2011), “T.V. Christmas,” original Abstract Expressionist crushed aluminum with colored ink sculpture / printing template, signed lower right, “John Chamberlain” and encased in a plexiglass and black painted standing frame. 39 in. W x 29 in. H x 1/4 in. D. Available with a painted wood and plexiglass tabletop standing frame, not pictured, overall: 45 1/8 in. W x 37 1/4 in. H x 12 1/2 in. D. Note: although Chamberlain created numerous sculptures and lithographs, template sculptures such as this one were relatively rare. One of the few prints made from this template, and purchased at the same time directly from the artist, is also available for sale in this auction (lot 438). John Chamberlain was best known for dynamic Abstract Expressionist assemblages made from crushed and welded automobile parts. Born in Rochester Indiana, he attended the Art Institute of Chicago and Black Mountain College before moving to New York. His participation in MOMA’s 1961 exhibition “The Art of the Assemblage” marked his arrival as a major figure in contemporary art. In later years he branched out into photography and even film. Chamberlain had his first retrospective at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in 1971 and a second retrospective at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles in 1986. The Guggenheim also showcased his work in 2012, following his death.

PROVENANCE: The estate of Eleanor H. Baer, Memphis, Tennessee (The Eleanor H. Baer Irrevocable Trust). Acquired directly from the artist through his studio, Ten Coconut, in Sarasota Florida Feb. 16, 1987. The original Ten Coconut sales receipt as well as 1990 correspondence between Mrs. Baer and Pace Gallery (which later represented Chamberlain) regarding an appraisal are available to the winning bidder.

CONDITION: Very good condition. One area of lower edge folded under, possibly in the making.