“Cradle,” created by Richard Artschwager in 1967, is a sculpture that resides within the genre of Conceptual Art. This artwork is a testament to Artschwager’s innovative exploration of everyday objects transformed into thought-provoking art pieces.
The artwork is a minimalist sculpture, composed of wood or a wood-like material. It is characterized by its straightforward and geometric design, resembling a contemporary cradle, yet stripped of any typical crib-like features such as curvature or softness. The piece predominantly exhibits clean lines and flat surfaces, giving it an austere and utilitarian aesthetic. The surface of the sculpture showcases a wood grain texture, adding an element of natural warmth and contrast to its otherwise severe form. The overall structure is composed of two tall, parallel vertical supports connected by a horizontal component, creating a solid yet open form that encapsulates the essence of conceptual minimalism.
