After studying at the Cranbrook Academy of Art, Bertoia worked for Charles and Ray Eames and Florence Knoll. The designs Bertoia created for Knoll were so successful, they allowed Bertoia to leave design and devote himself solely to his sculpture. His collection at Knoll is still in production and remains popular.
The range of works offered at Bonhams reflects the breadth of Bertoia’s career. From monoprints to large and small sculpture, there are objects in many styles and price ranges. Outstanding is one of Bertoia’s “Sonambient” works from the 1970s. Bertoia was fascinated by sound, and created metal sculptures that moved in the wind, creating beautiful soundscapes. He went on to record a series of 11 albums of ambient noise created by these works, titled "Sonambient." This collection of works shows how widely Bertoia experimented with metal and with form. His "Bush" sculptures, in particular, captivate with their rich texture and lightness, in spite of their dense media. All of the items at auction have been authenticated by the Harry Bertoia Foundation, who continue to promote his work.
