2004.30, Armchair, Karl Emmanuel Martin (Kem) Weber, c. 1928
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This highly architectonic chair represents one of Kem Weber's most successful designs from the late 1920s, reflecting his interest in European moderne furniture and anticipating his more streamlined creations of the 1930s. Introduced in 1928 by the Grand Rapids Chair Company as part of "The Kem Weber Group," the chair eschews painted or carved decoration for the bold
2001.223, Stand, American, c. late 1920s
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The body of this rectangular stand of architectural contour is cut on opposing sides with shelves to hold a telephone and/or books. It is raised on a simple trestle support with ivorine stringing throughout.
2001.217.a-d, Table, Albert-Armand Rateau (designer), c. 1925
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This circular table, by French furniture maker Armand-Albert Rateau, has a white-painted top inset at the center with a rondelle pierced with Marguerite flowerheads and leafage. The rondelle is set within an outer surround made up of eight rectangular shaped marble panels.
2001.181.a-c, Console table, Edgar Brandt (designer), c. 1930
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This demi-lune console table, designed by French metalsmith Edgar Brandt, has a blackened mustard marble top above a short apron with a beaded border. It is raised on four scrolling iron supports with beaded sides that are flanked by scrollwork.
1997.114, Isis and Horus, Egypt, 664-525 B.C.E., bronze
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
As the wife of Osiris and the mother of Horus, Isis was the most popular Egyptian goddess. She was widely regarded throughout antiquity as the personification of the ideal wife and protective mother.
2001.120.a-r, Chandelier, Albert Cheuret (designer), c. 1925
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This chandelier was designed by French designer Albert Cheuret and depicts an exotic bird in flight. His outer feathers are composed of radiating panels of alabaster, and his body is a rich green patina bronze.
The Skyscraper as Symbol
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The skyscraper building type was invented in America during the late 19th century in Chicago and New York. By the 1910s, so many high-rise buildings were being erected that authorities in Manhattan feared sunlight would eventually be unable to reach the streets below.
2001.114, Pearl Divers vase, Vicke Lindstrand (designer), 1933
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
This clear crystal vase was designed by Swedish glass designer Vicke Lindtsrand and engraved by fellow Swede Emil Goldmann for Orrefors. It depicts three nude male divers etched on the vase's ribbed and tapered surface.