Kinetic Neon Sculpture by Toni Burgering, Netherlands, 1972

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A highly rare and collectible neon wall sculpture by Dutch artist Toni Burgering (1937–2017), designed and produced in 1972. Executed … Read more A highly rare and collectible neon wall sculpture by Dutch artist Toni Burgering (1937–2017), designed and produced in 1972. Executed in blue neon with an aluminum-laminated background and encased in clear acrylic glass, this piece is a striking example of early neon art with sculptural presence. Created in a very small edition, possibly unique, it reflects Burgering’s meticulous craftsmanship and eye for industrial elegance. While Burgering is widely known for his monumental public works in Rotterdam, small-format neon pieces like this are virtually unknown, making it a coveted acquisition for discerning collectors. The sculpture comes from a private collection and remains in excellent, fully functional condition. Its minimalist composition, luminous glow, and precise construction, including the beautifully finished reverse, underscore its museum-quality status. Toni Burgering emerged as one of the Netherlands’ pioneering neon artists. He found deep inspiration in American pop culture and the neon-drenched visuals of postwar consumerism. His most iconic work, Everything of value is defenseless (Rotterdam, 1970s), remains a cultural landmark. Today, his legacy lives on in public art and through rare objects like this, bridging art, design, and poetry in luminous form. Toni Burgering (1937–2017) was a distinctive Dutch artist known for his neon works in public space, especially in Rotterdam. His most famous piece, Lucebert’s poetic line “Everything of value is defenseless”, has illuminated the city skyline since the 1970s. Trained in Arnhem and Rotterdam, Burgering was deeply influenced by American pop culture and developed a fascination with neon after visiting the U.S. His vibrant, often provocative works drew on themes of space travel, erotica, and music. Throughout his life, he remained devoted to public art, producing numerous neon pieces and building an extensive image archive of Rotterdam’s artworks, now housed at CBK Rotterdam. See less