Designer: Willi Gutmann (1927 – 2013)

Item: Symbol sculpture

Manufactured by: Phillip Morris Incorporated

Country of origin: Switzerland

Year made: 1972

Materials: Aluminum.  Case is hardwood with brass fittings

Dimensions:  Sculpture when assembled 7 ½” x 2 ¾” x 1 ¾”; wood case is 3 ¼” x 10 ¼” x 5”

Description: Symbol is a 23-foot-tall stainless steel sculpture commissioned by Phillip Morris Incorporated for installation on the grounds of its Research & Development Center in Richmond, Virginia.  The Research Center had a modern addition designed by noted architect Ulrich Franzen and was formally dedicated in April 1973, where this sculpture was originally installed.  It has since been moved to another location. 

This is a small-scale aluminum version specifically created by Gutmann in 1972 in a limited edition of 500 as gifts to art patrons and corporate friends.  These were not sold, and this is the first we have ever seen come to market, and despite 500 being made it is unusual that none have ever come available for sale.  Although there are different ways the pieces of this work can be configured, for our photos it is assembled as the original, which is how it fits in its custom fitted box.  Marked on the bottom outside edge of the largest element “Phillip Morris W. Gutmann 72 402 - 500”.  This example is number 402 of 500 and is in its original specially designed and fabricated custom fitted wood case.  It also and retains all its original documentation pamphlet and two post cards as shown.

Gutmann initially trained and worked as an architect but transitioned into fine art sculpture in the early 1960s.  He specialized in large outdoor sculptures, but also produced a fine range of small tabletop works, as well as some editioned pieced for ALCOA and other firms.

Condition: Excellent overall.  One very minor corner dent on upper portion of the bottom aluminum element and wood box has a few minor dings.

References: Wendelberger, Alex, Willi Guttman Collection, Kehrer Verlag Heidelberg Berlin (2017); Wendelberger Neues, Kunst, September 2017 issue.