Torque #33 D Maker: Stanley Lechtzin (American, born 1936)

1973

American Decorative Arts

On view, 3rd floor, Modern and Contemporary Art and Design

Stanley Lechtzin has expanded the vocabulary of contemporary metalsmithing by introducing materials and techniques that were traditionally associated with industrial manufacturing. Lechtzin, a founding member of the Society of North American Goldsmiths and an influential teacher, was an early proponent of computer-aided design. To create this bold neckpiece, Lechtzin shaped acrylic resin using silicone molds, electroformed silver on carved Styrofoam, and then partially electroplated the silver with gold. The result blends the gleam of gold and silver with luminous lavender-colored plastic in sculptural forms that are visually weighty yet physically light. Lechtzin’s interest in innovation is balanced by a deep appreciation for historical jewelry. The torque shape of this piece references the solid or twisted necklaces and armbands made by various cultures across the ancient world.

Medium

Electroformed and parcel-gilt silver, and acrylic

Dimensions

12 × 7 1/4 in. (30.48 × 18.42 cm)

Credit Line

American Arts Purchase Fund

Accession Number

1978.86

Culture
Period

20th century

Classification
Disclaimer

Note: This electronic record was created from historic documentation that does not necessarily reflect the Yale University Art Gallery’s complete or current knowledge about the object. Review and updating of records is ongoing.

Bibliography
  • Damian Skinner, ed., Contemporary Jewelry in Perspective (New York: Lark Jewelry & Beading, 2013), 124–5, ill
  • Stanley Lechtzin, Selections from Five Decades 1959-2009 Jewelry and Objects, exh. cat. (Philadelphia, PA: Philadelphia Art Alliance, 2009), unpag., ill
  • Marcia Manhart et al., The Eloquent Object: The Evolution of American Art in Craft Media Since 1945, eds. Tom Manhart and Carol Haralson, 1, exh. cat. (Tulsa, OK: Philbrook Museum of Art, 1987), 90, ill
  • "Acquisitions 1978," Yale University Art Gallery Bulletin 37, no. 2 (Summer 1979), 62
  • Barbara M. Ward and Gerald W. R. Ward, eds., Silver in American Life: Selections from the Mabel Brady Garvan and Other Collections at Yale University, exh. cat. (New Haven, Conn.: Yale University Art Gallery, 1979), 21, 88, no. 58, ill
Object copyright
Additional information

Object/Work type

necklaces, neckpieces

Marks

"SLECHTZIN" in raised and tappering letters surrounding/ "*Sterling" all within a raised rosette

Technical metadata and APIs

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