Dale Chihuly Cobalt and Violet Navajo Blanket Cylinder 1984 Signed Glass Sculpture

Artist: Dale Chihuly
Title: Cobalt and Violet Navajo Blanket Cylinder
Medium: Hand Blown Glass
Size: 17 1/2" high x 8 3/4" diameter
Inscription: Signed and dated "Chihuly 1984"
Year: 1984
Documentation: Includes Gallery Certificate of Authenticity

Steeped in historical significance, Dale Chihuly's 1984 Cobalt Navajo Blanket Glass Cylinder stands as an imposing testament to the artist's pioneering spirit and creative ingenuity. Measuring a striking 17 1/2" high with an 8 3/4" diameter of 8 3/4 inches, this piece is a rare embodiment of Chihuly's mastery of glassblowing.

The Navajo blanket series holds a cherished place in Chihuly's artistic journey, serving as a canvas for his exploration of texture, color, and form. In this cobalt rendition, the deep blue hue evokes the vast expanse of the desert sky, while subtle tones of bright violet near the apex add a touch of celestial elegance. Adorned with meticulous markings in red, green, and white, reminiscent of the intricate patterns found in traditional Navajo textiles, this cylinder is a testament to Chihuly's reverence for indigenous artistry. Each line and curve tells a story of heritage and craftsmanship, inviting the viewer to delve into the rich tapestry of Native American culture.

Emblazoned with the signature "Chihuly 1984", this piece is a true collector's item, representing a pivotal moment in the artist's career. With its bold yet graceful presence, the Dale Chihuly Cobalt Navajo Blanket Glass Cylinder is a timeless tribute to the enduring beauty of Chihuly's vision and the rich artistic traditions that inspire it. Pruchase of this work includes a gallery certificate of authenticity from Modern Artifact, and an unbroken record of provenance is available by request.

About Dale Chihuly

Dale Chihuly stands as a luminary in the realm of contemporary glass artistry, celebrated for his monumental sculptures and awe-inspiring installations that captivate audiences worldwide. His name resonates with iconic creations such as the breathtaking ceiling adorning the Bellagio's flower garden in Las Vegas and the magnificent Rotunda Chandelier gracing the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Revered by collectors and decorative arts enthusiasts alike, Chihuly's glass works are coveted treasures, coveted for their unparalleled beauty and craftsmanship.

Despite an initial disinterest in formal education, Chihuly's journey led him to prestigious graduate schools, where he pursued both scientific and artistic degrees in sculpture. While he demonstrated early talent in interior design and craftsmanship, his heart was always drawn to the mesmerizing allure of glass. As a Fulbright Fellow in the late 1960s and later as an apprentice at the Venini Glass Factory in Venice, Chihuly immersed himself in the ancient art of Murano glasswork, honing his skills and pushing the boundaries of traditional glassblowing techniques.

Chihuly's artistic repertoire spans a diverse array of series, each showcasing his boundless creativity and technical mastery. From the iconic Cylinders and Baskets of the 1970s to the vibrant Macchia, Venetians, and Persians of the 1980s, his oeuvre is a testament to his enduring innovation and artistic evolution. The Niijima Floats and Chandeliers of the 1990s and the more recent Fiori series from the 2000s further cement his status as a visionary in the world of glass art.

For over three decades, Chihuly has served as the artistic director of his team of craftsmen, a role necessitated by two life-altering accidents that left him blind in one eye and unable to manipulate the blowing tube. Despite these challenges, Chihuly's visionary leadership has propelled his studio to new heights, allowing him to explore the boundless possibilities of glass on a grand scale while preserving his distinctive aesthetic.

With his work showcased in over 200 prestigious decorative art collections and the recipient of twelve honorary doctorates, Dale Chihuly's legacy as a trailblazer in the world of glass artistry is firmly established. His enduring contributions continue to inspire awe and admiration, ensuring his place among the pantheon of artistic visionaries.