Brazilian: Abraham Palatnik Op Art Lucite Owl Sculpture
A magnificent investment piece of mid-century modern optical art, this substantial owl sculpture was handcrafted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, by the globally celebrated pioneer of kinetic design, Abraham Palatnik.
Standing a rare and highly sought-after 18.0cm tall, this large-format model from the iconic 1970s Artemis Collection is formed from solid, high-clarity polyester resin with no mold seams or casting lines. Suspended entirely inside the fluid acrylic body is a double-faced Op Art graphic layer featuring metallic gold bands, deep black geometric lines, and highly detailed turquoise-blue dotted gradients. When turned under natural light, the sculpture produces a hypnotic, three-dimensional optical illusion that shifts and plays with visual frequency. Fully authenticated with the artist's embedded signature, this museum-listed design sculpture stands as a premier centrepiece for the elite modernist collection.
Master Artist Pedigree: Handcrafted by Abraham Palatnik, a primary pioneer of the global Kinetic and Op Art movements whose visual installations are preserved in major international galleries including the Museum of Modern Art in New York. Integrated Authentication: Fully signed with the authentic, embedded lowercase cursive "Pal." signature clearly visible near the lower baseline corner of the internal graphic layer. Specialized Technical Craft: Palatnik's revolutionary proprietary process involved encapsulating intricate graphic patterns seamlessly inside molten liquid resin, a technique that ensures the exterior remains flawlessly smooth while the interior pattern captures and refracts light.
Original Intended Use: High-end mid-century modernist display sculpture. Alternate Suggested Use: Luxury desk focal piece or a striking light-refracting shelf styling centrepiece.
More Details
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Origin & Era
Made in Rio de Janeiro, 1970s.
Research & Attribution
Each piece is researched with care and supported by comprehensive historical notes drawn from available sources, comparative analysis, and archival references. While I am not a certified appraiser or authentication specialist, my attributions reflect careful independent research and may be refined as new evidence emerges. These notes are offered to enrich understanding and appreciation of each item, rather than as formal guarantees of age, provenance, or authenticity.
Approximate Dimensions
Vintage Condition
Price
Bob / Yaga Price
R 3,650.00
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