Large Spindle Piece (work of art)
Artwork Info
Key Ideas about this Work of Art
- The sculpture was inspired by a flint pebble the artist found near his home in Hertfordshire, England, and by a detail in Michelangelo’s painting of God’s hand reaching out to Adam’s finger on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
- The artist created a maquette (small model) of this sculpture before he created the larger, final version and cast it in bronze.
- British artist Henry Spencer Moore is best known for his abstract bronze sculptures. They were often inspired by natural forms. He created art in an abstracted style that was influenced by expressionism.
- Moore is considered to be one of the most important British artists and sculptors of the 20th century. He also worked in printmaking, textile design, and drawing.
Learn More
Large Spindle Piece, by British sculptor Henry Spencer Moore, has been part of the Museum’s collection since 1980.
For many years Moore’s sculpture was located in Gipson Plaza, between the East and West buildings. It was moved here, to this meadow, where it can be viewed from multiple angles with the sky as a backdrop.
The artist once said,
“Sculpture is an art of the open air. Daylight, sunlight, is necessary to it, and for me, its best setting and complement is nature.”
Additional Resources
Resources for Teachers
- Read the artist’s biography.
- Watch a short film from the Henry Moore Institute.
- Read an article about Large Spindle Piece.
Resources for Students
- View a maquette (miniature version) of Large Spindle Piece.
- Watch a short video about restoration of this sculpture.
- Watch a video about the artist.
Images
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Large Spindle Piece
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Large Spindle Piece