Unknown

Clamshell Compact

early 20th Century

Montblanc Meisterstück Classique Fountain Pen c. mid 20th century Resin, metal; Nib: 14K solid gold

Trees Kiln-fired enamel 4.5" h x 3.5" w 9" h x 8.5" (framed) Max Karp is widely recognized as the chief innovator of modern enameling. Self-taught and driven, over the years he perfected a unique process which allowed for his creation of museum-quality, kiln-fired two-dimensional painting. Karp was born in Ohio in 1916 but raised in California. He began painting as a child by depicting various species of birds and insects for his father who was an ornithologist and entomologist. In the mid-1960's, Karp became interested in the enamel process. Over the last half century, his paintings have received critical recognition and in 1970 Hamilton Mint commissioned Karp to produce paintings of the four seasons of the year, which were then issued as a limited edition of plates on precious metal. In 1980 Karp's enamel portrait of Beverly Sills, the American Queen of Opera, was presented to the singer following her final performance. His work is included in numerous private collections including those of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Margaretta “Happy" Rockefeller, and Sarah Churchill...