Charles Hollis Jones Signed Lucite Obelisk Sculptures, Pair, 1974

Details

Description

A striking pair of vintage Lucite obelisk sculptures designed and manufactured in the United States by Charles Hollis Jones in … Read more A striking pair of vintage Lucite obelisk sculptures designed and manufactured in the United States by Charles Hollis Jones in 1974. Both pieces are hand-signed and dated “74”, providing an especially desirable detail for collectors of Jones's work.

Executed in thick, crystal-clear Lucite, the sculptures take the form of dramatically elongated, faceted obelisks rising from substantial geometric bases. Their sharply tapered profiles, polished surfaces and optical clarity create constantly changing reflections and refractions as they are viewed from different angles. The difference in height between the two pieces gives the pair a particularly strong architectural presence when displayed together.

These obelisks are an excellent example of 1970s American modern design, when Lucite and acrylic became important materials for designers interested in creating furniture and decorative objects that possessed physical presence without visual heaviness. Their transparent construction allows the surrounding architecture, artwork and furnishings to remain visible, making them particularly versatile pieces for sophisticated contemporary interiors.

Charles Hollis Jones (American, b. 1945) is widely recognized as one of the pioneering figures in American acrylic and Lucite design. After establishing CHJ Designs as a teenager, Jones became known during the 1960s and 1970s for experimenting with clear acrylic at a time when plastics were still relatively uncommon in luxury furniture and decorative arts. His work helped elevate Lucite from an industrial material into a sophisticated medium for high-end American design.

Jones's innovative approach earned him the nickname “Mr. Lucite,” and his designs became closely associated with the glamorous modern interiors of Southern California. His clientele included figures such as Frank Sinatra, Lucille Ball, Johnny Carson and Tennessee Williams, while his work also intersected with the world of architect John Lautner and other leading figures of postwar American modernism. His experimentation with transparency, structure and sculptural form contributed significantly to the enduring acceptance of acrylic as a luxury furniture and decorative-arts material in the United States.

For interior designers, architects and collectors, this pair offers exceptional decorative possibilities. Their vertical proportions make them ideal for placement on a console table, credenza, pedestal, fireplace mantel, library cabinet or illuminated display surface. They would work equally well in a Hollywood Regency, Mid-Century Modern, contemporary, minimalist or eclectic interior, where the transparent Lucite can provide height and sculptural interest without introducing additional visual weight.

The graduated scale also makes the pair particularly effective as a centerpiece within a curated collection of 1970s American design, Lucite furniture, acrylic sculpture or Charles Hollis Jones furniture and decorative objects.

Condition:
Very good vintage condition. The pieces present beautifully with only minimal wear consistent with age and use. Please refer to the photographs for additional condition details. Both pieces are hand-signed and dated 1974.

Measurements:
Taller obelisk: 19.50 in. H × 2.625 in. W × 2.625 in. D
49.53 cm H × 6.67 cm W × 6.67 cm D

Shorter obelisk: 15.75 in. H × 2.375 in. W × 2.375 in. D
40.01 cm H × 6.03 cm W × 6.03 cm D

Designer: Charles Hollis Jones
Country: United States
Date: 1974
Material: Lucite / Acrylic
Markings: Hand-signed and dated “74”
Period: 1970s American Modern / Mid-Century Modern

This is a particularly compelling signed pair of Charles Hollis Jones Lucite sculptures, combining the designer's celebrated command of transparent acrylic with the clean geometry and glamorous sophistication that defined some of the most memorable American interiors of the 1970s. See less