Lot 30
(b. 1969)
Drehung 720°-180° (2017)
Medium
Steel on limestone plinth
Dimensions
110" x 13" x 4.75"

Estimate: $15,000 - $20,000

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About this Lot
Description
This item ships from New York
Drehung 720º-180º was created by German artist Thomas Röthel as part of a series of sculptures entitled “Drehung,” or “rotation” in German. Röthel puts his own spin onto the idea of making heavy metal look pliable or malleable, which has been explored frequently in the course of the late 20th century. In his work, massive steel plates are cut on different points and then rotated on their own axes, with the characteristic mid-portion forming through the twisting and intertwining of steel strips. Balanced on its limestone base, Drehung 720º-180º invites observation from all angles, allowing the viewer to experience the sculpture transform seamlessly from an imposing and robust steelwork in one instance, to a delicate dance of ribbons in the next. Röthel explores weather-resistant construction steel’s dual nature – solid yet light, solid yet fluid, refined yet raw – and accentuates this nature through the impressive stature of Drehung 720º-180º. The red and umber patina of the work is achieved through oxidation, which lends a rugged quality to the work that adds complexity to its seeming fragility. Describing his work, Röthel observes that he cannot make the steel do what he wants it to; instead, he has to cajole it to do so. In that sense, Drehung 720º-180º is a unique three-dimensional creation stemming from the collaboration of the artist, the material, and the laws of physics. Further information about the work can be found here.