Taking Shape : Finding Sculpture in the Decorative Arts

While some artworks are more readily labeled as "decorative arts" and others as "sculpture," such objects can exchange and share features. Decorative objects intended for functional or ceremonial use can incorporate sculptural forms or assert a sculptural presence and, conversely, sculpture can perform decoratively, serving an ornamental program or purpose. Showcased in this book are thirty-eight extraordinary works of decorative art, furniture, and sculpture, that embody such sculptural inventiveness. Drawn from the collections of the J. Paul Getty Museum and the Temple Newsam House, Leeds, England, these pieces will be on exhibit from October 2, 2008, through January 4, 2009, at the Henry Moore Institute, Leeds, and from March 31, 2009, through July 5, 2009, at the J. Paul Getty Museum.

Martina Droth is research coordinator at the Henry Moore Institute, Leeds.
Charissa Bremer-David is curator in the Department of Sculpture and Decorative Arts at the J. Paul Getty Museum.
Katie Scott is reader at the Courtauld Institute, London.
Mary D. Sheriff is Associate Professor in the Department of Art at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Mimi Hellman is Assistant Professor of Art History at Skidmore College.