Tennis Player
Sculpture • David Fisher (signed on base as 'Fisher')
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern revival / Brutalist Folk Art
Medium & Technique
Mixed media including welded industrial scrap metal (found objects), hand-painted polychrome finish, and a natural stone/granite base.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century to early 21st Century (c. 1990-2010)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 to 15 inches in height; vertical/portrait orientation on a rectangular base.
Subject Description
A stylized, whimsical depiction of a tennis player in mid-action, holding a racket high. The figure is constructed from industrial components like nails and metal plating, featuring a red and yellow shirt and blue shorts. The composition emphasizes athletic motion through rigid geometric forms.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; the piece shows age-appropriate wear with some minor paint loss and oxidation of metal parts.
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $350 USD
Auction Estimate
$100 - $200 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired through a commercial gallery or specialized craft boutique; common in home decor collections of the late 20th century.
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of the 'Found Object' movement applied to decorative arts, showcasing the 20th-century trend of repurposing industrial waste into accessible, figurative indoor sculpture.
Notable Features
Distinctive use of a heavy, raw granite slab as a pedestal which contrasts with the slender, industrial metal figure; signed by the artist in red script on the metal footplate.
Condition Issues
Visible surface oxidation on metal joints, minor scuffing on the painted surfaces of the clothing, and dust accumulation in the racket webbing.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a low-humidity environment to prevent further rust; clean gently with a soft brush and avoid abrasive chemicals on the painted metal.