Tie clasp

Designer: Alexander Calder

c. 1960

Brass

Minneapolis Institute of Art

Three abstract brass jewelry pieces are displayed against a white background. Two pieces feature spiral motifs, while the third has a circular outer frame with a winding inner element. Three abstract brass jewelry pieces are displayed against a white background. Two pieces feature spiral motifs, while the third has a circular outer frame with a winding inner element. Calder’s jewelry designs started with coiled brass wire and eventually evolved into the flat, hammered look of these pieces. He preferred to make his jewelry by hand, and was often seen carrying around a spool of wire and pliers in order to work spontaneously. His trademark spirals and rosettes may hark back to his Scottish origins, but he was also inspired by both ancient and modern cultures from across the world. Calder did not permit duplication or