“Josephine Baker (III)” is an expressionist sculpture created by the artist Alexander Calder around 1927. It is part of the “Josephine Baker” series of artworks and is currently housed at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, NY, US.
The sculpture depicted is a stylized representation of the famous entertainer Josephine Baker, known for her dynamic performances and influence during the Jazz Age. Calder’s artwork captures her figure using wire, creating an abstract yet expressive form. The sculpture is characterized by its simplicity and fluidity, with a minimalistic approach that delivers a strong visual impact. The use of spirals to denote certain anatomical features and the playful yet elegant pose reflects a sense of motion and vitality, which aligns with the dynamic persona of Josephine Baker herself. Calder’s ability to convey personality and movement with such economical use of material is a testament to his innovation within the sculptural form.
