Louise Nevelson (1899-1988)

Throughout her illustrious career, Louise Nevelson associated with Cubism, Dada, Abstract Expressionism, Minimalism, installation art and Feminism; but her singular approach to art has marked a unique place in the development of modern sculpture. Nevelson's trademark assemblages induce an almost alchemistic quality to found common objects used in her work. Black Box, although modest in scale, is a timeless example of her signature monochromatic works. In the words of the artist: 'But when I fell in love with black, it contained all colour. It wasn't a negation of color. It was an acceptance. Because black encompasses all colors. Black is the most aristocratic color of all. You can be quiet and it contains the whole thing. There is no color that will give you the feeling of totality. Of peace. Of greatness. Of quietness. Of excitement. I have seen things that were transformed into black, that took on just greatness. I don't know a lesser word.' (Nevelson quoted in D. MacKown, Dawns & Dusks, New York 1976, p.126).