Calder's Universe

A reissue of an out-of-print volume that accompanied a 1976 exhibition, this profusely illustrated celebration of sculptor Alexander Calder's (1898-1976) life and work samples the diversified mediums in which he experimented. His mobiles exquisitely balance grace and economy; the larger stabiles approach architecture in scale and physical presence. He brought the same spontaneity and sense of play to wire sculpture, tapestries, graphics, ink drawings of animals, household objects and jewelry. As Lipman ( Calder's Circus ) observes, the theatrical sets Calder designed gave full scope to his penchant for strong color, movement and large scale, while the oils, bronzes and wood sculpture display a falling off in quality. Also here are hybrid projects such as plexiglass sculpture, an acoustic ceiling, a huge fountain. (Dec.)