John Nicolas Otar
Helix
c. 1935
Scroll
John Nicolas Otar
Helix
c. 1935
Physical Qualities
Brass, copper, Box with lid: 5 3/4 x 4 3/4 x 4 7/8 in. (14.6 x 12.1 x 12.4 cm) Box base: 3 1/2 x 4 3/4 x 4 7/8 in. (8.9 x 12.1 x 12.4 cm) Lid: 3 x 3 x 1 1/8 in. (7.6 x 7.6 x 2.9 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Michael and Anis Merson, Baltimore
Object Number
2004.161
BEDROOM OR OFFICE
At the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, Gilbert Rohde displayed this chrome-plated desk lamp model in a full-scale display home decorated with mass-produced objects for middle-class consumers. Called Design for Living, the house showed how Depression-era designers incorporated the latest technology—like alarm clocks and night lights—into simple designs produced in cost-effective materials. The family grandfather clock or candle of 50 years before was now a stylish electric accessory, only an arm’s reach away on a personal desk or bedside table.
The Baltimore Museum of Art by gift, 2004; Michael and Anis Merson, Baltimore
Markings: Maker's mark stamped on underside of cover: "PATS.(Otar mark)PEND."
On View: American Wing Second Floor, Scott 04/Stairwell Case 1