Pair of Graduated Tessellated Specimen Marble Obelisks by Maitland-Smith

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Description

A striking pair of graduating tessellated specimen marble obelisks by Maitland-Smith, executed in the late 20th century and representative of … Read more A striking pair of graduating tessellated specimen marble obelisks by Maitland-Smith, executed in the late 20th century and representative of the firm’s refined approach to neoclassical form filtered through postmodern materiality. Architectural in scale and composition, the pair translates the ancient Egyptian obelisk into a distinctly late 20th-century decorative object, combining classical geometry with the richly patterned surfaces and exacting stonework associated with Maitland-Smith’s best production.

Each obelisk is constructed in marble and rises from a stepped square plinth in black marble to a tapering shaft terminating in a sharply cut pyramidal point. The front face of each shaft is inlaid in tessellated specimen marble, composed of angular geometric segments arranged in a rhythmic mosaic of contrasting stones. These include richly veined black marble, warm honey and sand-toned marbles, cream limestone, and green serpentine, each selected for tonal contrast and natural patterning. The result is both graphic and geological—an abstract composition of color, veining, and mineral surface that reads as a disciplined decorative study in stone.

The remaining three sides are executed in black marble mosaic, creating a deliberate contrast between the highly articulated front elevation and the more restrained architectural mass of the reverse and flanks. This asymmetry gives the pair a strong frontal orientation and reinforces their intended use as sculptural decorative objects for console, pedestal, or bibliotheque display.

Elegant and architectonic, the pair reflects Maitland-Smith’s enduring interest in historic form, luxurious materials, and meticulous craftsmanship, offering a sophisticated late 20th-century interpretation of the classical obelisk in graduated scale.

Dimensions
Large: 34 in. high × 8.5 in. square
Small: 26 in. high × 6.75 in. square See less