Brian Willsher (1930–2010) – Untitled Carved Wood Sculpture, 1973
Price: £POA
An original signed and dated 1973 sculpture by British sculptor Brian Willsher, constructed from a complex arrangement of stepped, interlocking and cantilevered wooden forms.
Willsher was self-taught as a sculptor and came to art through an unconventional background that included engineering and technical trades. Working directly in wood, he developed a distinctive sculptural language in which bandsawn geometric forms, deep openings and repeated structures create an intriguing balance between engineering and organic abstraction.
His career has an extraordinary place in British art history. In 1968, HM Customs & Excise controversially ruled that Willsher’s sculptures were taxable “household decorations” rather than fine art. The decision contributed to his bankruptcy and prompted prominent artists to defend his work, including Henry Moore, who described it as “pure sculpture” and “memorable sculpture”. The ruling was subsequently reversed.
This signed 1973 example has a particularly architectural presence, continually changing as it is viewed in the round. Presented in very good vintage condition.
Artist: Brian Willsher (British, 1930–2010)
Date: 1973
Medium: Carved wood
Signature: Signed and dated
Dimensions: 37 × 22.5 × 14 cm
