Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This dynamic mid-century Brutalist kinetic-style sculpture depicts a hot air balloon carrying figures in a basket, mounted upon a rough-hewn quartz mineral base. Crafted from torched, brazed, and patinated metals with verdigris and flame-painted accents, it captures the raw, industrial energy of the 1970s Brutalist decor trend.
Story
During the 1970s, Iranian-born artist Bijan J. Bijan revolutionized American decorative metalwork with his whimsical yet industrial welded sculptures. His hot air balloon motifs became iconic symbols of freedom and fantasy.
Maker / Origin
Bijan J. Bijan (1936–2016) established his studios in California and New York, building a highly successful business producing hand-welded, torch-cut metal sculptures. His studio artists produced varied decorative works featuring brass, copper, and quartz, often signed simply 'Bijan' on a brass plaque, etched into metal, or stamped along the wire armature.
Condition & Value
Displays rich natural oxidation, verdigris patina, and torch distressing consistent with production style. The sculpture unmounts from its original quartz base, which shows natural fracturing typical of the stone.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.