Op Art Felines: Pair of Vintage Abraham Palatnik Lucite Cat Sculptures
1970s

A charming and collectible pair of kinetic art sculptures by the renowned Brazilian artist Abraham Palatnik (1928–2020), dating to the 1970s.

Part of the celebrated "Artemis" Collection (often spelled Artimis), these figurines showcase Palatnik's mastery of optical illusion within solid forms. The cats are crafted from clear lucite (acrylic) and feature embedded sheets of black-and-white geometric patterns. The internal lines are arranged in sweeping, organic curves that mimic the fur and contours of the animals, creating a "moiré" or vibrational optical effect as the viewer moves around the piece. The silhouettes are elegant and minimalist, depicting the cats in a seated pose with tails curled upward.

Markings:
Label: The base of each figure retains the original paper label reading "Made in Brazil".

Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The lucite remains clear and bright.

Measurements:
Height: 4 inches (10.2 cm)
Width: 2 1/2 inches (6.4 cm)
Depth: 0.75 inches (1.9 cm)

Historical Context:

Abraham Palatnik was a pioneer of the technological movement in Brazilian art and is widely considered the father of "Kinetic Art" in Brazil. In 1949, he created his first "Kinechromatic Devices," moving machines that projected light and color. In the 1970s, he applied these principles of movement and optics to the Artemis Collection, a series of hundreds of acrylic animals and figures produced at his factory in Brazil. These objects democratized his avant-garde experiments, allowing everyday collectors to own a piece of optical art.

Reference:
Abraham Palatnik: A Pioneer of Technological Art by Frederico Morais.

(Ref: ny8420/8431-imr)


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: Good condition

Dimensions:
Height: 4 in.
Width: 2.5 in.
Depth: 0.75 in.

Category: Models & Figurines
Origin: Brazil
Materials: Lucite
Creator: Artist: Abraham Palatnik

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $19.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: No International Shipping for this auction.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from Downingtown, PA

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In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; Good condition