Majestic Sputniks

As a small child, a singular location in our small town epitomzed to me complete luxury and glamour. The jewelry store, aptly named Majestic Jewelers, was the one destination I always longed to visit on our somewhat infrequent trips to the local mall. My six year old self begged my parents to just let me browse for a few moments, likely to their utter confusion. One might believe that I was enticed by all the shiny baubles, the sparkly gems, but one would be incorrect (OK, maybe only partially). I was absolutely entranced by the lamp that stood guard on the counter near the cash register. This was no ordinary lamp, this was a fancy domed fiber optic lamp (on a chrome base if I recall), circa 1980. I perceived it to be the paragon of beauty, and was held mesmerized as the colours shifted from green, to pink, to purple, to blue, ad infinitum. I would chastise my younger sister when she dared to touch the brush like surface (I was a super bossy child), but I longed to do the same. Today I imagine it and wonder what the hell was I thinking, it is like the ugly step-sister of the lava lamp. 

But the aforementioned lamp comes to mind each time I come across a sputnik sculpture, more frequently now that they have arisen to the top of my accessory wishlist.  Though the lamp was a mere half dome, the ones I covet now are a full sphere, with far less prongs and entirely more static than that abomination of my youth. Originally made popular in the sixties by Curtis Jere, they are now cropping up everywhere. Kelly Wearstler recently rendered them in brass, in three sizes and I fell utterly in love.  Alas those lie in a realm far beyond my price range and there they shall remain. Jonathan Adler now offers the authentic Curtis Jere reproduction in chrome and at 21” it is the perfect size, particularly if only displaying one. I think I need a sputnik to rest on one of my credenzas. I can only imagine my own children twenty years from now, going on about the most dreadful chrome sculpture they had to endure, growing up.

Kelly Wearstler's Brass Sputniks

Jonathan Adler's Reissued Sputnik by Curtis Jere

Stunning room from Neuvo Estilo, I'm guessing this is an original Jere sculpture

Source

 

Comments

[Aubrey]

I think we all have a "what the hell was I thinking???" memory...or twenty...(c: Mine usually include crimping and neon. But on to the subject at hand, those sculptures are so fantastic...they are such a great mix of form and futuristic, but not to the point of being obtuse, y'know what I mean? I'm always drawn to that fun, spikey shape and they always add a certain something to a room...I say go for it! And we will need pictures. (c;

[Jessie]

There is definitely a sputnik craze going on in the design world. Honestly, I am not into sputnik sculptures because it looks like it will pierce into my flesh any minute. I know, it's just me being a worry wart. However, I am in love with sputnik lamps/chandeliers. :)

By the way, I just host a new giveaway so stop by and enter for a chance to win a piece of fabulous jewelry of your choice. :)

Jessie
www.mixandchic.com

[Sundeep @ Designwali]

i like the sputnik sculpture...especially in brass! i could definitely put one in my home (although somewhere where the kids can reach for it as a toy). thanks for your lovely comment on my post today. Just the boost I needed...its nice to know I'm not alone when going mad with kids!

[Brandi]

It is my life's goal to get a sputnik chandelier or sculpture! I was thinking of trying to DIY something similar while funds continue to evade my wallet. Lovely examples!

[Shannon (8foot6)]

I love that second room! those chairs? oooooh la la!