Images(3)

Commemorative Bird Bowl

Artist Graham Stewart (Scotland, 1955 - 2020)

SilversmithRaised by Neil Fellows

SilversmithCarved by Norman Ward

Date2000 - 2001

Object NameBowl

Mediumsilver and gold

ClassificationsApplied Art

DimensionsDiam: 28.0cm

AcquisitionPresented in 2001 by the Friends of Aberdeen Art Gallery & Museums.

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG011160

Keywords

About MeStewart's work is characterised by simplicity and quiet restraint. The undecorated metal forms the perfect ground for his exquisite engraved lettering. He also draws inspiration from birds, which he often incorporates into his designs. Here a square aperture in the bowl's well contains a carved bird with gold inlays. The engraved inscription - Best of any song is bird song in the quiet, but first you must have the quiet - is by the American poet Wendell Berry.

Designed and engraved by Graham Stewart, raised by Neil Fellows, bird carved and inlaid by Norman Ward.

The bowl was commissioned by the friends to commemorate both the 25th Anniversary of the organisation and the Millennium. It presented to the Art Gallery's Collections in May 2001.

More About Me

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The engraved inscription reads "Best of any song is bird song in the quiet, but you must have quiet" (Wendell Berry). The carved bird shows gold inlay