Nutcracker from The Joy of Ornament

1980

Robert Kushner

Associated Names
Robert Kushner

Artist, American, born 1949

Stephen Thomas

Printer, American, active 1978

Crown Point Press

Publisher

The image displays swirling lines and shapes that form overlapping faces with intricate headpieces resembling blooming flowers. Zigzag patterns and bold stripes also divide the image. The elements may evoke carnival masks or ornate headdresses, set against a textured background of diagonal lines.
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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    etching, aquatint, and drypoint from a portfolio of 17 etchings and aquatints and three drypoints on wove Arches paper

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Kathan Brown

  • Dimensions

    plate: 22.5 x 10.2 cm (8 7/8 x 4 in.)
    sheet: 29.2 x 15.2 cm (11 1/2 x 6 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1997.8.124.16

Associated Artworks

See all 21 artworks
The image shows a collection of elongated oval shapes intersected with curved lines, layered with pointed leaf-like forms that create an intricate pattern. The abstract arrangement resembles clusters of stylized flowers or decorative bulbs. Black and white contrasts with gradual grays add depth to the composition.

Vines from The Joy of Ornament

Robert Kushner, Stephen Thomas, Crown Point Press

1980

The Joy of Ornament

Robert Kushner, Crown Point Press

1980

The image displays an arrangement of bold black and white shapes and lines that create a striking contrast within a rectangular frame. The abstract design resembles overlapping petals of a flower, with curved lines creating folds and contours. The central area contains crisscross patterns reminiscent of woven fabrics, adding complexity to the floral elements. The composition showcases an interplay of form and pattern, drawing parallels to familiar botanical motifs.

Black Flowers from The Joy of Ornament

Robert Kushner, Stephen Thomas, Crown Point Press

1980

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Acquired by NGA in 1997 directly from Kathan Brown.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

"Robert Kushner" verso, lower right sheet, graphite, artist's hand. Not dated. "OK to Print" verso, lower left sheet, graphite, artist's hand.

Markings

"16" lower right margin, black stamped ink.

Watermarks

None.

Wikidata ID

Q75405289

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