Ornamental Turned Box, circa 2007

Fair Market Value: $1,250

Contributor will receive 50% of winning bid.

Dimensions: 1.0625" x 2.9375"

African Blackwood and Boxwood

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M. Dale Chase

This ornamentally turned box represents a major development of M. Dale Chase's work. He transitioned to creating simple-shaped boxes which were only ornamented on the inside. This created sensual forms that invited fondling in the palm of one's hand. Chase precisely laminated different color woods, then turned them to form the box. Complex cutters of his design cut precise patterns through the wood layers, resulting in the vividly contrasting designs.

M. Dale Chase took to ornamental turning after 32 years as a vascular surgeon. Ornamental turning utilizes Holtzapffel and Rose Engine lathes developed in England during the 1800's. Shaped metal cutters are oriented to cut patterns into wood. Chase first experimented with a 150 year-old Holtzapffel lathe, then transitioned to using the Rose Engine lathe. From early boxes patterned on the exterior, his focus shifted to simple forms with interior patterns. Chase boxes are included in the Smithsonian Renwick Gallery, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and 100 in the collection at the Center for Art in Wood.

The Center for Art In Wood

The Center for Art in Wood interprets, nurtures, and champions creative engagement and expansion of art, craft, and design in wood to enhance the public's understanding and appreciation of it. CAW has built its reputation by providing opportunities for makers and visitors to experience craft directly, through participatory programming; seminal exhibitions and documentation; and the growth, conservation, exhibition, and care of its permanent collection. The Center's practice of keeping these resources free and available to the public emphasizes its commitment to building a democratic and inclusive community.