Details
Description
“Unicycle” (from the Jesters Series), 2005
Mixed media sculpture (steel armature & polymer clay), 28 in. high
Artist-confirmed; exhibited work
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“Unicycle” (from the Jesters Series), 2005
Mixed media sculpture (steel armature & polymer clay), 28 in. high
Artist-confirmed; exhibited work
A rare and expressive mixed-media sculpture by contemporary American artist Laura Balombini, this piece—titled “Unicycle” and created in 2005—belongs to her sought-after Jesters Series. It was originally shown at the Philadelphia Fine Craft Show, a respected juried exhibition of contemporary craft.
Standing an impressive 28 inches tall, the sculpture features two elongated, whimsical figures balancing atop a unicycle-form base. This work captures Balombini’s early narrative voice: playful yet introspective, theatrical yet intimate. Her signature elements are all present—carved and painted faces, asymmetrical expressions, textured hair, patterned garments, and her distinctive hand-formed wire limbs.
The surfaces exhibit rich detail and subtle color work, while the wire components show the natural patina expected in her early mixed-media pieces. The sculpture displays beautifully from all sides, offering strong presence and sculptural movement.
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Provenance
• Confirmed authentic by the artist, Laura Balombini, via direct private correspondence.
• Artist provided date, series, exhibition history, and medium.
• Documentation available to the buyer upon request.
(Artist’s message will be provided privately to the purchaser—contact information withheld for privacy.)
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Dimensions
• Height: 28 in. (71 cm)
• Base: 8 × 8 in. (20 × 20 cm)
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Condition
Very good overall condition.
• No structural damage or repairs
• Painted surfaces remain vibrant and stable
• Natural light oxidation to wire elements, consistent with age and materials
• Stands securely; excellent presentation
Photographs are part of the condition report.
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Notes
Early Balombini works of this scale are increasingly scarce on the secondary market. The combination of:
• early date,
• exhibition history,
• direct artist confirmation, and
• large, complex composition
makes “Unicycle” a highly collectible centerpiece within Balombini’s oeuvre and within contemporary narrative folk sculpture more broadly.
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Shipping
Professional art packing with full insurance.
Ships via UPS or FedEx.
International collectors welcome.
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- Dimensions
- 8ʺW × 8ʺD × 28ʺH
- Styles
- Early American
- Folk Art
- Period
- 2000 - 2009
- Country of Origin
- United States
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Clay
- Iron
- Mixed-Media
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Cerulean
- Condition Notes
- Excellent vintage condition, consistent with the materials and age of the work. The painted surfaces, sculpted heads, and wire elements … moreExcellent vintage condition, consistent with the materials and age of the work. The painted surfaces, sculpted heads, and wire elements display the natural variations and patina inherent to Balombini’s hand-built mixed-media process. No breaks or structural issues. The piece retains its original character, presence, and integrity throughout. less
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