Naum Gabo

Model for ‘Spiral Theme’

1941

The Work of Naum Gabo © Nina & Graham Williams / Tate, 2020

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On loan

MOMA MACHYNLLETH (Machynlleth, UK): Artist Refugees and British Art

Artist: Naum Gabo 1890–1977
Medium: Plastic
Dimensions: Object: 63 × 171 × 114 mm
Collection: Tate
Acquisition: Presented by the artist 1977
Reference: T02181

Display caption

Models were an essential stage in Gabo''s working practice. He usually began with drawings, then built models, which allowed him to test the different types of materials he might use. A comparison of the models for Monument for an Airport and Spiral Theme with the finished sculptures on display in this room demonstrates the precision of his enlargement process. Two of the models incorporate pieces of stone, an idea which emerged in 1930-1.

Gallery label, August 2004

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Catalogue entry

Naum Gabo 1890-1977

T02181 Model for 'Spiral Theme' 1941

Not inscribed
Plastic, 2 1/2 x 6 3/4 x 4 1/2 (6.3 x 17.2 x 11.4)
Presented by the artist 1977
Exh: Naum Gabo: The Constructive Process, Tate Gallery, November 1976-January 1977 (68)

The model for T00190.

Published in:
Ronald Alley, Catalogue of the Tate Gallery's Collection of Modern Art other than Works by British Artists, Tate Gallery and Sotheby Parke-Bernet, London 1981, p.250, reproduced p.250