2231

Paolo Soleri
(1919-2013 Arizona)
A large bell chandelier
Cast bronze
Signed with artist's cipher
87" H x 22.5" W x 22.5" D

Other Notes: Paolo Soleri was one of the most unique visionaries of the 20th century. Part artist, architect, ecologist, and maverick, Soleri would coin the term 'Arcology,' a portmanteau of architecture and ecology that would take form in Arcosanti, an urban laboratory in the heart of Arizona's Sonora desert. Born in Turin, Italy, Soleri earned a 'laurea' in architecture, which led to a fellowship with Frank Lloyd Wright to study in the United States. After a return to Italy to set up a ceramics factory in Amalfi, Soleri and his wife moved to Arizona in the 1950s, where for the next half-century, he would use his experience in ceramics to create buildings, ceramics, and most famously, windbells. Even today, almost half the income of Arcosanti is supported by the sale of the bronze windbells, which during his lifetime and since his death has been used to fund the tests of his theoretical ideas. Dedicated to research and redefine urban planning, Arcosanti is a unique and, now more than ever, relevant experiment in design and sustainable living.

This chandelier, a masterwork hybrid of bells and electricity, is one of only two known to exist (its sibling is in Arcosanti itself). The green hue of the bronze cast by sand molds are designed with an organic form uniquely rooted in the work of Soleri and the design motifs of Arcosanti. The semi-concealed lights coupled with the bronze create a unique lighting centerpiece. Movement and breezes work together to add a dynamic, living quality to the chandelier, elevating it beyond merely a utilitarian tool to a work of art.


  • Condition: Overall good condition with oxidation, dust accumulation, dents, and nicks commensurate with age. Wiring should be checked by a qualified electrician prior to use.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Buyers are responsible for arranging their own shipping estimates and deliveries. Moran's in our discretion and as a courtesy to buyers, can arrange to have purchased lots packed, insured and forwarded by a third-party shipper at the request, expense and risk of the buyer. Moran's assumes no responsibility for acts or omissions in such packing or shipping by other packers or carriers, even if recommended by Moran's. Nor does Moran's assume any responsibility for any damage to picture frames or to the glass therein. In circumstances where Moran's arranges for such third-party services, Moran's may apply an administration charge of 15% of that service fee.

November 19, 2019 2:00 PM PST
Monrovia, CA, US

John Moran Auctioneers

You agree to pay a buyer’s premium, as outlined below, and any applicable taxes and shipping.
Buyer's Premium
$0 - $500,000:
25.00%
$500,001 - $1,000,000:
18.00%
$1,000,001+:
15.00%

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 $499,999 $25,000
$500,000 + $50,000