1989.109, Bubble lamp, designer: George Nelson, manufacturer: Howard Miller Clock Co., designed 1952
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
George Nelson's Bubble lamps are familiar icons of Modernism, the streamlined form somehow evocative of both paper lanterns and the space race. Nelson designed the first bubble lamp in 1947, using a self-webbing plastic that was developed for military use.
Wendy Reves (1916-2007)
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Wyn-Nelle Russell, known as Wendy, was born into a modest family in Marshall, Texas, in 1916. When she was only six years old, her parents divorced. Subsequently, an uncle and aunt took in Wendy and her mother. Soon afterwards, she and her mother moved to Haynesville, Louisiana, and then to San Antonio. Their life was chaotic and difficult.
1992.513, “Cone chair”, Designer: Verner Panton, Manufacturer: Plus Linje, 1957
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
As one of the most versatile contemporary industrial designers, Danish architect Verner Panton designed a wide range of products, including furniture, lighting, and textiles. Trained in Copenhagen, Panton worked with well-known architect and designer Arne Jacobsen from 1950 to 1952 before establis
1994.255, “Ball” Wall Clock, Designer: George Nelson Associates, Manufacturer: Howard Miller Clock Co, 1947
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Beginning in 1947, the Nelson design office designed a series of new clocks for Howard Miller, whose account it had acquired the previous year.
1989.73, Armchair, Designer: Alexander Girard, Manufacturer: Herman Miller, Inc., 1967
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The bold colors of the vinyl upholstery of this chair typify the vivid palette favored by its designer, Alexander Girard.
1995.41, ‘Marshmallow’ sofa, Designer: George Nelson Associates, Manufacturer: Herman Miller, Inc, c. 1954-1955
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Consisting of eighteen circular cushions mounted to an openwork aluminum and steel tube frame, this icon of 1950s design was, according to a 1956 Herman Miller catalogue, intended to appeal to consumers on the basis of its "astonishing appearance" and correspondence to the needs of modern l
1985.R.583, Unknown maker, Reclining armchair, Dutch, c. 1650-75
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
Fashion designer, Gabrielle (Coco) Chanel, originally installed this reclining arm chair at Villa La Pausa, and it remained part of the villa's decor through the residency of Wendy and Emery Reves. While sitting in this chair the occupant or his attendant could adjust his position by means of a bolt protruding from the arms which engages a ratchet on the back-posts.
Red-figure patera with Atlas handle
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The following essay is from the 1996 publication Gods, Men, and Heroes: Ancient Art at the Dallas Museum of Art.