By Paolo Soleri
Located in St. Louis, MO
An exceptional and highly collectible vintage Southwestern studio-art wind bell, designed by artist Jeff Cross (d. 1977) for his legendary workshop, Harmony Hollow Bell Works, circa early 1970s. Hand-cast during the studio's foundational years in Arizona, this piece heavily channels the desert modernism and brutalist architectural form popularized by legendary architect and artist Paolo Soleri.
The bell features a beautifully weighted, hand-cast bronze cap displaying a spectacular, naturally aged emerald verdigris patina that highlights its rich surface texture. Suspended from a beautifully sculpted, heavy double-curved cast bronze S-hook hanger, the bell's internal clapper terminates in a hand-cut, organically shaped sheet copper sail. Signed HH & BW bell works.
A wonderful example of mid-century American studio metalwork, this bell produces a deep, resonant, and remarkably pure musical tone when caught by the wind. Offered in excellent vintage condition with an incredibly rich, completely uncleaned original patina and fully intact, structurally sound chain linkage.
Jeff Cross founded Harmony Hollow Bell Works and began making his cast-bronze bells in 1969 in Arizona. Taught by his father—a metallurgist who managed foundries during World War II—Jeff was able to realize his dream of becoming a master bell-maker and creating high-quality bronze designs, running the studio until his passing in 1977.
Jeff Cross bronze bell, Harmony Hollow wind chime, Paolo Soleri style bell, Arcosanti wind bell...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Bronze Building and Garden Elements