Robert Lee Morris Silver Percussion Pectoral Necklace

This Robert Lee Morris Silver Double Line Pectoral Necklace is a re-interpretation of a 1973 necklace that was shown in Morris’ one-man show at Sculpture to Wear in the Plaza Hotel. Donna Karan wanted to use many of Morris’ vintage silver necklaces from the mid to late 1970’s in her 2005 fall runway show, and rather let her use the original version, (which was delicate and breakable) he made this new version. It is part of Morris’ fascination with the “percussion” theme, using silver, ebony and brass in a rhythmic pattern, A little like music, jazz, or African drumming, he made several pieces that juxtaposed ebony and silver. Also very inspired by the sculptures of Louise Nevelson, Morris showed his love of tribal moods in his early work. This necklace is a silver wire that is embellished with many styles of wrapped wire and tubing, and is the frame to hold the two long vertical strands of constructed sections as seen in the photo. The endings are two silver balls that hang and move with the body. Slight touches of color, turquoise, carnelian, and lapis are a nod to classic Egyptian jewelry colors.