LITTLE ARCH [MAQUETTE] (c.1940) by Alexander Calder

The artwork titled “Little Arch [Maquette]” is a sculpture created by Alexander Calder around 1940. It is associated with the Expressionism and Surrealism art movements and belongs to the genre of sculpture, specifically classified as a “stabile,” implying it is a stationary abstract sculpture.

The artwork in discussion depicts a black, abstract form that is characterized by its geometric shapes and lines. It consists of flat, metallic elements that are connected in a way that suggests an arching motion or structure, hence its name. The stabile maintains a sense of balance and poise, despite its asymmetrical design, which is a testament to Calder’s expertise in engineering and design. The surfaces appear smooth, and the structure is held together by visible rivets or joints, accentuating the sculpture’s industrial materiality and construction. The matte finish on the sculpture provides an understated appearance, allowing the focus to be primarily on its form and the play of space and volume it creates. Alexander Calder’s work in other stabiles and mobiles typically engages the viewer with dynamic relationships between the object and surrounding space, even though this particular piece is designed to be stationary.