a SUPERB one of a kind vintage 1970s handmade copper enamel abstract modernist design pendant still on the original 25" leather cord by important artist/enamelist Kay Whitcomb (1921-2015) of San Diego, California. Whitcomb is one of the most important enamelists of the 20th century, and this pendant is an extraordinary example of her very rare enameled jewelry pieces! Here's a biography (that I have shortened somewhat) of the artist given on the Enamel Arts Foundation website: She began her art studies at Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) in 1939. She completed her course work at RISD in 1942. She moved, in 1954, to San Diego with her two children. Her work explored diverse subjects, and she started incorporating words, phrases, and proverbs into it. Her work was shown at California Design 11 at the Pasadena Art Museum in 1971. She juried and curated numerous exhibitions and went to great efforts to keep enameling on public display. Besides exhibiting in Europe, she led the effort to have several American enamelists included in the prestigious International Biennial of Enamel Art in Limoges. This pendant is from the estate of the highly regarded Southern California studio ceramist, Wayne Chapman, and had belonged to his wife, Barbara, a textile and jewelry artist, who had traded a piece of her jewelry to Whitcomb in exchange for this pendant around 1970-71. It is not signed, but the provenance is unquestionable. It measures just over 3" tall by just over 2.25" widest point. Still hangs on the original 25" wearable leather cord that slips over the head. Can be easily replaced with a longer cord if needed, or hung on a chain or even a neck ring for different looks! Such a unique and extraordinary work by this very important enamelist and with such important provenance! A collector's dream!! Excellent vintage condition.
A one of a kind copper enamel abstract modernist pendant necklace by Kaye Whitcomb of San Diego, California circa 1970.
Available...
www.rubylane.com/item/1879775...
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