Grotesque Self-Portrait of the Artist as a Mute Oracle, William Harper

Artwork Overview

born 1944
Grotesque Self-Portrait of the Artist as a Mute Oracle, 1990
Where object was made: United States
Material/technique: silver; gold; amethyst; plastic; cloisonné; pearl; enamel
Dimensions:
Object Height/Width/Depth (Height x Width x Depth): 100 x 108 x 60 mm
Object Height/Width/Depth (Height x Width x Depth): 3 7/8 x 4 5/16 x 2 3/8 in
Credit line: Museum purchase: Friends of the Art Museum
Accession number: 1992.0038
Not on display

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Spencer Museum of Art Highlights

After starting his career as an abstract painter, William Harper transitioned to enameling and jewelry, developing an interest in creating objects with seemingly ritualistic or magical importance. Harper describes himself as “a wizard, a sorcerer... and alchemist.” Many of his works are self-portraits, such as this one, making his finished pieces incredibly personal and introspective, allowing the audience a glimpse into the artist’s inner psyche.

Exhibitions

Jessica Lea Johnson, curator
2009
Chassica Kirchhoff, curator
2011–2012
Beverly Joyce, curator
Jean Rosenthal, curator
1997–1998

Resources

Audio