$39,100
USA, 1976 wood, metal 9½ w x 41 h in (24 x 104 cm)
Isamu Noguchi's model for Friendship Fountain grew out of an ambitious plan to create a symbol of "the spirit of cooperation and friendship enjoyed by the peoples of Iowa and Nebraska.
" Designed to be sited in Council Bluffs, Iowa on the edge of the Missouri River, the towering 150 foot structure would have formed an impressive beacon on the landscape. A mist of water was designed to spray on the rotating blade at the top of the structure and illumination would be added at night. According to Noguchi, "the illumination of the fountain high in the air will gradually intensify and the spray and whirling blades will make an effect as some phenomenon of nature signifying the promise of America." Unfortunately, the required funds were never raised and this unique project went unrealized. The model is sold with promotional materials related to the project including a blueprint of interior details and a signed letter from Noguchi discussing the work. literature: Isamu Noguchi: A Study of Space , Torres, pg. 270 illustrates the project and a similar model
result: $39,100
print
Auctioneer:
Wright Auctions
Date:
2001-03-11
