The New York City Nuttcracker

ca. 1991-94

Cast resin, paint, glass

Overall: 17 3/4 x 5 3/4 x 5 3/4 in. ( 45.1 x 14.6 x 14.6 cm )

Gift of Mr. Anthony Gordon

2000.3

This version of Arkin's "New York City Nutcracker" was offered in a limited edition of 300 in coordination with Dancers Responding to AIDS, an organization formed in 1991 to provide assistance to people with AIDS in New York City and elsewhere. Profits from the sale of these sculptures were to go directly to the sponsoring charity.

DescriptionStanding figure in hand painted cast resin, dressed in red trousers and white jacket with gray belt, red sash and cuffs, and gold epaulets, meant to represent the Nutcracker in Tchaikovsky's ballet; over-sized head a portrait of Peter Martins; mouse seated on shoulder with human head bearing likeness of George Balanchine; gold lapel button with profile portrait of Lincoln Kirstein; medallion pinned to sash with profile portrait of the artist; circular gold base with scalloped sides and a faceted glass disk applied in front, in back, and on each side; mouse head affixed to top of base.

Markingssigned and inscribed: on back of base: "15/300 / Elliott"

ClassificationsDECORATIVE SCULPTURE