1966-1968

Tree Chalice

American, 1911 - 2002

Tree Chalice manifests a calligraphic and gestural language that was prevalent in mid-twentieth century art, particularly among Abstract Expressionists. That this work is made of bronze is unusual for Rudolf Staffel, who built his career as a ceramic artist. While in Rome from 1966 to 1968 to set up a study abroad extension program for Temple University’s Tyler School of Art, the artist created and cast four chalices in bronze. Staffel did not have access to a kiln, so he was forced to work in plasteline clay, an oil-based modeling compound that never hardens and is reusable. He worked out four different designs based on a chalice form, created negatives, and had each one cast in bronze. Although the material is unusual for the artist, it retains his commitment to capturing light.