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Photography by Edward C. Robison III.

Sommerfarm

Cutting through bone china, leaving blank space where there was once delicate floral decoration, Elizabeth Alexander transforms found teacups, saucers, and a pitcher from dinnerware—vessels to hold liquid and crumbs—into artworks whose sole function is to be observed. Alexander challenges the perception of decoration as frivolous, prompting viewers to reconsider what impact its removal might have on their everyday lives.

ArtistElizabeth Alexander, born 1982
Date2014
MediumHand-cut bone china
Dimensions6 1/2 x 4 x 6 1/2 in. (16.5 x 10.2 x 16.5 cm)
Credit LineCrystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas
ClassificationSculpture
On ViewNo
Sommerfarm6.5 × 4 in.Tennis Ball2.7 in. diameter

This artwork's face covers about 3.6× the area of a tennis ball.Drawn to the same scale.