Jean Tinguely – Original Mixed media on paper

1973

This unique work on paper by Jean Tinguely from 1973 is executed in marker, ink, and collage.

The work is signed “Jean” lower right and dated “Columbus 14.mai 73”.

The work also contains an inscription by the Swiss artist Hans Bernhard Luginbühl and his wife Ursi. Luginbühl was a close friend of Tinguely.

The drawing relates directly to a new project by Tinguely in the United States. Between 1973 and 1974, Tinguely created the monumental kinetic sculpture “Chaos I” in a community center in Columbus, USA. As referenced in this work, the installation was constructed in the former Columbus Pump House. Designed as the central element of The Commons, the sculpture reached a height of approximately 9 meters and weighed around 7 tons.

The installation was powered by 12 motors controlling 13 different functions. Its movements ranged from subtle and quiet to loud and mechanical, featuring rattling components, rotating wheels, and moving elements. In line with Tinguely’s artistic practice, the sculpture was built using found materials, emphasizing his signature approach to mechanics, movement, and industrial assemblage.

The provenance of the work is directly linked to the Anne-Marie und Victor Loeb-Stiftung, a Swiss foundation managing the collection of Anne-Marie (Nani) and Victor Loeb. This collection is considered one of the most important private collections of modern art in Bern and is regularly exhibited in Swiss museums. Works from this foundation typically remain within institutional contexts and rarely appear on the market.

The work is professionally framed, mounted in a custom-made acid-free passe-partout, and presented in a handcrafted wooden frame with Plexiglas® Optical HC (UV protection, scratch-resistant, minimal reflection).
Framed size: approx. 57 × 47 cm

Jean Tinguely (1925–1991) is regarded as one of the most important artists of the post-war avant-garde and a central figure within Nouveau Réalisme. He gained international recognition for his kinetic sculptures, in which movement, chance, and mechanical systems play a key role. His works are held in major museum collections, including the Centre Pompidou, the Museum Tinguely, and the Museum of Modern Art.

Authenticity and provenance guaranteed.
Delivered with a certificate of authenticity.

Worldwide shipping, tax-friendly to the USA and EU countries.
Custom handmade framing available on request.