Balloon Barrage

Alexander Calder
Balloon Barrage
Collection: Modern Tapestry
Dimensions: 49 x 67 in. (123 x 170 cm)
Material: Handwoven wool tapestry by Pinton Freres workshop, France
Artist signature: Signed by artist and monogrammed by atelier
Condition: Excellent
Edition: From an Ed. of 6 and 2 AP

Alexander Calder “Balloon Barrage” Tapestry
The “Balloon Barrage” tapestry is a woolen artwork created by the renowned artist Alexander Calder (1898-1976). Signed by the artist himself and bearing the monogram of the workshop (Atelier Pinton Freres) that produced it, the tapestry belongs to a limited edition series of six pieces, with two additional artist’s proofs. Woven in Aubusson, France, the tapestry has an interesting ownership history, having been part of the collections at Civil and Civic in Australia Square, Sydney, and later sold at a Sotheby’s auction in Melbourne in 2004. It currently resides in a private collection in Melbourne.

Calder is most recognized for his mobiles, which are suspended sculptures that dance in the air currents, creating a dynamic and ever-changing visual experience. This focus on movement and the interplay of balance and chance became a defining aspect of his work.

While some of his early works incorporated figurative elements, Calder primarily focused on abstract forms throughout his career. He utilized geometric shapes, vibrant colors, and biomorphic curves to create a unique visual language.

Organic shapes reminiscent of nature, like leaves, insects, and fish, often appear in his sculptures and tapestries. This connection to the natural world adds a sense of whimsy and playfulness to his art.

Bold and contrasting colors like red, blue, and black are a staple in Calder’s work. This vibrancy contributes to the overall energy and dynamism of his sculptures and tapestries.

Calder’s background in mechanical engineering and his childhood fascination with the circus heavily influenced his artistic approach. He incorporated elements of balance, movement, and mechanical ingenuity into his sculptures, often using simple materials like sheet metal and wire.