Bashka Paeff (Minsk, Russia, 1894 - 1979, Boston)
Arthur Foote's Hand, 1912
Ceramic, 8 x 16 x 23 cm (3 1/8 x 6 5/16 x 9 1/16 in.)
This is a ceramic model of Boston composer Arthur Foote’s right hand. The hand is cast in a pale, nearly white ceramic. The fingers are relaxed into a domed position, curling under slightly. The thumb rests on its side, showing the inner edge. The model ends just below the wrist; a twisted metal wire forms a hook and is attached to the end. Alt 2: This shows the palm of the hand. From this view, the fingers curve upward and the outer edge of the thumb is visible. Tensed muscles can be seen in the wrist. At the flat end of the model, these words are inscribed above the hook: To Arthur Foote, from Bessie Paeff, July 1912.
Yellow Room
Commentary
Isabella Stewart Gardner kept meticulous records of many of her acquisitions. In keeping with this legacy, object information is continually being reviewed, updated, and enriched in order to give greater access to the collection.