Split Sphere” Copper and Bronze Wall Sculpture, Attrib. Bruce & Willam Friedle

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Split Sphere Copper & Bronze Wall Sculpture, Attributed to Bruce & William Friedle

A large mid-century modern copper and bronze … Read more Split Sphere Copper & Bronze Wall Sculpture, Attributed to Bruce & William Friedle

A large mid-century modern copper and bronze wall sculpture attributed to American metal artists William and Bruce Friedle, circa 1960s–1970s. Descriptively titled “Split Sphere,” the work features hundreds of slender copper rods radiating outward from a substantial diamond-shaped bronze core.

The rods are individually positioned in tightly spaced groups, forming an elliptical sunburst divided horizontally through its center. Slight variations in their length and alignment soften the outer perimeter and retain the handmade character of the sculpture. The central division interrupts the radial pattern, giving the composition the appearance of two separated hemispheres extending from a common geometric center.

The raised bronze core is constructed with concentric diamond-shaped bands of textured and molten metal alternating with closely aligned darkened rods. An irregular molten-bronze boss forms the central focal point. The contrast between the reddish copper rods, gold-toned bronze, and darkened recesses emphasizes the sculpture’s layered construction and geometric organization.

The work combines elements of American Brutalism, Op Art, and mid-century studio metalwork. Although stationary, its overlapping copper rods create changing patterns of density, shadow, and reflection as the viewing position and surrounding light change. The construction is closely related to documented wire sunburst sculptures by William and Bruce Friedle, whose work frequently incorporated fabricated copper rods and textured molten-metal surfaces. The sculpture is unsigned; the attribution is based upon corresponding materials, construction, and design.

The reverse retains its substantial diamond-shaped copper armature, threaded fasteners, and integrated hanging support. It may be displayed horizontally as an elongated oval or vertically as an upright radiant composition. The dimensions reverse according to the selected orientation.

Horizontal orientation: 45 in. W × 36 in. H × 3 in. D.
Vertical orientation: 36 in. W × 45 in. H × 3 in. D.

Good vintage condition with minor oxidation, surface variation, and occasional irregularities to the copper rods consistent with age and handmade fabrication. See less