César Baldaccini (César) - Compression Sculpture (1971 Edition)

This item is a 1971 'Compression' sculpture by the renowned French Nouveau Réaliste sculptor César Baldaccini, commonly known as César. The sculpture is housed within a transparent Plexiglas or acrylic vitrine, showcasing the artist's signature technique of crushing industrial materials into compact, artistic forms. Physically, the piece appears to be composed of compressed metal, likely salvaged scraps or industrial components, exhibiting a varying color palette dominated by red and silver tones. The crushing process creates a dense, intricate texture of folds and jagged edges, transforming mass-produced objects into a unique aesthetic entity. Based on the provided context, it is from a limited edition of 10. The condition appears consistent with a piece from the early 1970s, though the exterior vitrine may show minor surface scratches or dust typical of age. The craftsmanship is characterized by the deliberate balance between industrial destruction and sculptural composition, a hallmark of the New Realism movement. Pieces like this are foundational to 20th-century avant-garde art, representing a radical departure from traditional modeling and carving. While individual signatures or numbering might be located on the base or the acrylic casing, the provenance and rarity (1 of 10) significantly enhance its value as a museum-quality collectible.