Mid Century Sculpture 'Harlequin' by Fred Press (American, 1919-2012) C.1950

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This ultra-rare Fred Press Harlequin Head Sculpture from 1950 is a remarkable piece of art produced by Fred Press, a … Read more This ultra-rare Fred Press Harlequin Head Sculpture from 1950 is a remarkable piece of art produced by Fred Press, a renowned artist born on October 14, 1919, in a family of Russian immigrants. The sculpture is a testament to Press's artistic prowess and the legacy of Contemporary Art Inc., the firm he co-founded with his brother in 1930.
It is crafted from cast gypsum plaster and adorned with a bronze patina burnished paint, this sculpture stands at 7" tall, with a 2.75" base, making the entire piece 9.75" tall. It's 5" width adds to its versatility, making it an excellent complement to various interior designs and decor styles. Despite a few scuffs and marks, the sculpture remains in overall excellent condition, showcasing the wear of a life well appreciated.

The influence of art deco is evident in the design, adding a touch of timeless elegance to the piece. Fred Press's artistic journey began as a teenager when he won the Proctor and Gamble Soap Sculpture annual awards for four consecutive years in the 1930s. He later studied and taught at the Vesper George School of Art in Boston. Press gained recognition for his sculptures, reproduced and distributed by Contemporary Arts, Inc. His paintings were exhibited in prestigious venues, earning critical acclaim and prizes. Private collections and institutions, including the Boston Museum of Fine Arts and the Worcester Art Museum, acquired his paintings. Notably, one of his sculptures won first prize at a competition at the Delgado Museum of Art in New Orleans.

In the 1950s, Press moved to New York City, where he served as the chief designer and executive Vice President of Rubel and Company for three decades, revolutionizing the giftware industry on Fifth Avenue. His contributions earned him a Good Design Award from the Museum of Modern Art, NY, for his innovative multi-media products. Fred Press's artistic legacy extends beyond sculptures and paintings; he authored books such as "Sculpture at your Fingertips" in 1962 and, in the 2000s, "Remembering The Caribbean Breeze" and "John Paul Jones." His literary contributions included illustrations for several books.
In the 1990s, the United States Navy commissioned Press to create two of the 24 bronze reliefs at the Naval Memorial in Washington, DC, where they are displayed. Fred Press passed away on August 3, 2012, at the age of 92, leaving behind a rich artistic legacy that continues to be celebrated and cherished. See less