Rare and highly important bronze sculpture by Jacques Lipchitz (1891–1973), one of the most influential figures in 20th-century Modern and Cubist sculpture. This example is Cast 3 of 7, produced under estate authorization and acquired directly from Marlborough Gallery in 1979, remaining in the same private family collection for more than four decades.

Created during a pivotal period in Lipchitz’s artistic development, Meditation exemplifies the sculptor’s move toward increasingly organic, rhythmic abstraction, balancing mass and void with profound psychological presence. The compact yet powerful form reflects Lipchitz’s mastery of bronze as a medium—its surface alive with intentional modeling, textural depth, and structural tension.

This sculpture is well documented and widely referenced, appearing in major exhibition catalogues and foundational literature on Lipchitz’s work. Examples from this early period, particularly those with clear provenance, limited casts, and published references, are increasingly difficult to acquire and are typically encountered in museum collections or long-held private estates rather than the open market.

Provenance:
Marlborough Gallery, New York
Gallery 609, Denver
The Estate of Jacques Lipchitz
Acquired December 18, 1979 (original Marlborough Gallery invoice included)
By descent in the same family collection until present

Exhibited:
Jacques Lipchitz: Small Sculptures, Maquettes and Drawings (1915–1973)
Marlborough Gallery, New York
March 3–27, 1979
Catalogue No. 13, illustrated p. 7

Literature:
Jacques Lipchitz, My Life in Sculpture, with H. H. Arnason. Thames & Hudson, 1972. Catalogue No. 67, illustrated p. 84
H. H. Arnason, Sketches in Bronze: Jacques Lipchitz. Praeger Publishers, 1969. Catalogue No. 26, illustrated p. 60

Condition:
The bronze presents with a rich, deep patina showing natural tonal variation consistent with Lipchitz’s casting and finishing practices. Surface texture is strong and well preserved, with minor expected rubbing and light patina wear at high points. No structural issues observed. Mounted on a hardwood base. Please refer to photographs for complete condition details.

Additional Notes:
Early Lipchitz bronzes with documented provenance, exhibition history, and literature inclusion represent the upper tier of his sculptural output and are closely followed by serious collectors and institutions. Works of this caliber are typically traded privately or through major international sales rather than repeated public offerings.

Measurements: approximately 7.5 inches high (excluding base)

The bronze presents with a rich, deep patina showing natural tonal variation consistent with Lipchitz’s casting and finishing practices. Surface texture is strong and well preserved, with minor expected rubbing and light patina wear at high points. No structural issues observed. Mounted on a hardwood base. Please refer to photographs for complete condition details.

Marlborough Gallery, New York
Gallery 609, Denver
The Estate of Jacques Lipchitz
Acquired December 18, 1979 (original Marlborough Gallery invoice included)
By descent in the same family collection until present

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