Abstract Coniferous Form
Outdoor sculpture; free-standing vertical construction • Currently unidentified; suggests the circle of Harry Bertoia or similar American abstract expressionist sculptors working in the Brutalist/Modernist metal tradition.
Style & Movement
Modernist / Brutalist / Abstract Expressionism
Medium & Technique
Welded Cor-Ten (weathering steel) or mild steel with natural oxidation; constructed from cut-and-bent industrial metal bars and rods.
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century Modern, c. 1960s–1970s
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 72 inches (6 feet) height; narrow vertical format.
Subject Description
An abstract, totemic representation of a tree, likely a pine or fir. It features a central vertical axis from which angled, hook-like branches emerge symmetrically, graduating in width toward the base. Small spherical elements and circular loops add geometric interest.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; exhibiting significant surface oxidation (rust), which is characteristic of the material but requires monitoring for structural integrity.
Estimated Market Value
$3,000 - $7,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$2,500 - $5,000 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired via a gallery specializing in Mid-Century outdoor sculpture or commissioned for a private residence; in current collection since at least 1987.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the post-war shift toward using industrial materials to interpret organic forms. This piece aligns with the 1960s trend of 'Direct Metal' sculpture, emphasizing the artist's hand through weld marks and raw textures.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'chevron' style branches with upward-curving tips; finial-like topper with spherical accents; integrates industrial scrap aesthetic with deliberate botanical symmetry.
Condition Issues
Heavy surface oxidation (rusting), potential thinning of metal at weld points due to environmental exposure, and localized pitting or scaling.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning to remove loose scale; application of a microcrystalline wax or a specialized penetrative oil (like Owatrol) to stabilize the rust without destroying the patina; check footing for stability.
Collector Notes
6 foot tall steel sculpture created before 1987