Page 380 - The Legacy of Abraham Rothstein - text
P. 380
Utilitarian objects
134 Cup
Metal
2.375” x 2.375”
135 Loaf pan
Metal
11.25” long x 5.75” wide x 3” high
These two objects, while not strictly sculpture, are nevertheless
of interest as a demonstration of AR’s manifold skills and
talents. As related in his narrative, he picked up the technique
of rolling copper from a metal worker who lived in his
grandfather’s compound. And he was always inclined to take
care of his own needs, even when he could afford to purchase
those same goods and services. He rolled and shaped a sheet of
copper to make the baking pan, and lined it with tin. Fannie
Rothstein used it to back honey cake for Rosh Hashanah, when
one is supposed to eat sweet things. The rolled copper cup
flares out from 1.75” at its base to 2.375” at the lip. It cannot
be used for drinking, but has the shape of a Kiddush cup. AR’s
motivation for creating the object must remain a mystery.
136 Four pieces of fruit
Wood
From 2.5” x 2.75” to 3.75” x 2.5”
AR carved a number of purely ornamental but completely
naturalistic pieces of fruit; these four are all that remain. The
three apples—one Pippin and two Delicious—and one pear or
avocado are unlacquered. Their scale is life-size and each has a
short stem.
162 Pipe
Wood
20.5” x 5”
376
