Les Passoires

Les Passoires is a refined and visually dynamic tapestry by Alexander Calder, woven in 1970 by the renowned Pinton Frères workshop in Aubusson. The work exemplifies Calder’s ability to translate his sculptural and painterly vocabulary into textile form, maintaining the same sense of balance, movement, and clarity that defines his broader oeuvre.

The composition is structured through a network of abstract shapes—rounded, perforated, and interlocking forms that appear to float across the surface. These elements, characteristic of Calder’s visual language, suggest both organic and mechanical references, creating a tension between spontaneity and precision. The title, Les Passoires (Strainers), hints at perforation and filtering, reinforcing the rhythmic interplay of solid and open forms throughout the composition.

Color plays a decisive role in organizing the image. Bold, saturated tones are juxtaposed with darker and lighter elements, creating a sense of visual equilibrium. Each shape is clearly defined, yet the overall composition feels fluid and continuous, as if the forms are in a state of perpetual motion. This balance between structure and movement reflects Calder’s deep engagement with spatial relationships, a principle central to both his mobiles and his works on canvas.

The translation into tapestry enhances these qualities. The woven wool surface introduces a tactile softness that contrasts with the graphic precision of the forms. Subtle variations in thread and density allow for nuanced color transitions while preserving the crisp edges essential to Calder’s compositions. The result is a work that retains its visual immediacy while gaining material depth.

Calder’s collaboration with the Pinton ateliers, which began in the early 1960s, marked an important chapter in the revival of modern tapestry. These works were produced in strictly limited editions, ensuring both their rarity and their fidelity to the artist’s intent. Each tapestry carries woven signatures, atelier markings, and edition details, reinforcing its authenticity.

With distinguished provenance, having been commissioned directly by the owner of Art Vivant Gallery and preserved over time, Les Passoires stands as a museum-quality example of Calder’s work in textile. It is a piece that embodies the seamless integration of modern abstraction and traditional craftsmanship, where form, color, and material converge in perfect balance.