1980s Shirley Thomas Smith Native American Figural Sculpture

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Description

A striking and expressive Native American figural sculpture by American artist Shirley Thomas Smith, dated 1983 and numbered 23/36 from … Read more A striking and expressive Native American figural sculpture by American artist Shirley Thomas Smith, dated 1983 and numbered 23/36 from a limited edition.

The work depicts a seated Indigenous figure wrapped in a voluminous blanket or robe, rendered with Smith’s distinctive combination of simplified forms, exaggerated proportions, and expressive character. The figure’s broad, grounded posture and sweeping folds of the garment contrast beautifully with the delicately modeled face, giving the work a quiet, contemplative presence.

Finished in a soft ivory-white tone, the sculpture has a subtly textured surface that emphasizes its hand-modeled appearance and the flowing contours of the figure. The stylized treatment reflects the influence of Southwestern and Native American subject matter frequently found in American decorative and studio art of the period.

The sculpture is mounted on a contrasting black rectangular plinth, creating a strong graphic presentation and allowing the form to be appreciated from multiple angles.

Signed and dated Shirley Thomas Smith, 1983, and numbered 23/36, identifying this example as part of a limited edition.

A wonderfully engaging piece of 1980s American figurative sculpture, combining Native American subject matter, Southwestern influence, Modernist abstraction, and a warm sense of humanity.

Condition: Good vintage condition with age-appropriate wear. The sculpture exhibits scattered surface marks, minor discoloration, and small areas of finish wear consistent with age. The black plinth shows scratches, edge wear, and minor finish losses. Please review photographs closely for condition. See less