Untitled, circa 1986

Fair Market Value: $650

Contributor will receive 50% of winning bid

Dimensions: 3.5" x 3.00625"

African Blackwood

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M. Dale Chase

Made from African Blackwood, the turned box was made using an 18th century Rose Engine Lathe, which created unique decorative patterns. This hand-size box is an early example of M. Dale Chase's work, with equal emphasis on the overall shape of the box and its exterior and interior patterns.

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.