Artist: Dale Chihuly
Title: Yellow Basket with Orange Lip Wrap
Medium: Hand Blown Glass
Dimensions: 4.5" × 6" × 6"
Year: 1997
Inscription: Signed and dated on underside
Documentation: Includes gallery certificate of authenticity
Dale Chihuly's "Yellow Basket with Orange Lip Wrap" (1997) is a stunning example of the artist's signature glass-blowing technique, combining both simplicity and vibrancy in a beautifully executed form. Measuring 4.5" h × 6" w × 6" d, this hand-blown glass vessel is a celebration of color and texture, capturing the viewer's attention with its luminous, inviting yellow hue. The bright yellow evokes a sense of optimism and warmth, drawing the eye into the piece and creating a welcoming energy.
The striking contrast of the rich orange lip wrap encircling the top of the basket adds a dynamic focal point to the composition, further enhancing the work's visual appeal. The lip wrap not only highlights the craftsmanship and precision required for such delicate glass manipulation but also adds depth and a playful contrast to the bright yellow body of the piece.
Chihuly's signature style is evident in the fluid, organic shape of the basket, which feels both elegant and grounded. The smooth transitions between color and form reflect the artist's mastery in creating visually captivating works that engage the senses and evoke emotion.
Signed and dated on the underside, "Yellow Basket with Orange Lip Wrap" is a testament to Chihuly's innovative approach to glass art and his ability to infuse energy and life into each piece.
Includes gallery certificate of authenticity.
About Dale Chihuly
Dale Chihuly, born in Tacoma, Washington, in 1941, is an artist whose vision has forever changed the way the world views glass art. After studying interior design at the University of Washington, Chihuly discovered his passion for glassblowing and pursued further studies in Venice, Italy, at the Venini Glass Factory. He was soon immersed in the art of glass, beginning a career that would see him redefine the boundaries of what glass could be.
Chihuly's artistic practice diverged from the traditional use of glass in functional objects, focusing instead on creating sculptures that emphasized organic, asymmetric forms. In the 1970s, Chihuly co-founded the Pilchuck Glass School, an institution that would later become one of the most important centers for glass education in the world. Pilchuck became a breeding ground for innovation, with Chihuly at the helm, teaching and collaborating with artists from all over the world.
In 1981, Chihuly began his Macchia series, which marked a turning point in his career. The use of layered colors and the exploration of organic shapes led to a revolutionary style that challenged traditional glassworking methods. His Persian and Chandelier series followed, with monumental installations that captured the fluidity and dynamism of glass, creating pieces that were both mesmerizing and visually striking.
Chihuly's influence extended beyond the studio, as his glass sculptures were displayed in major public spaces and botanical gardens worldwide, where they would be seen by thousands of people. His work is characterized by bold experimentation with color, form, and texture, and his contributions to the glass medium have made him a visionary figure in the art world. Despite facing personal and physical challenges, including an accident in 1976 that left him blind in one eye, Chihuly's innovative spirit has never faltered, and his legacy as one of the most influential artists of his time endures.