Collection Information

Size: 35 items (on partial microfilm reel).

Summary: Biographical sketch written by Currie; photographs of Lenz and some of his work; correspondence; an exhibition catalog; and postcards of the Panama-Pacific International Exposition held in San Francisco, Calif. in 1915; newspaper clippings about Lenz, and his sculptures, particularly "Stardust," done just before his death; and a printed reproduction of a bas relief done by Lenz of an Aztec Indian, 1910. [Microfilm title: Alfred Lenz papers.]

Biographical/Historical Note

Sara R. Currie, Jacksonville, Fla., was a close friend of Lenz and described herself as his assistant. She is a member of the well-known Rockefeller family. Alfred Lenz, sculptor; born in Fon-du-Lac, Wisconsin. Moved to San Francisco at 19 years, but soon left and went to New York City where he spent a short period working for Gorham Silversmiths. He soon became absorbed with sculpting and devoted the rest of his life to developing and perfecting a special lost wax technique of casting metals which was used by the ancient Chinese. He also designed a bas relief medallion for the Panama-Pacific International Exposition of 1915.

Provenance

Donated by Sara R. Currie.

Location of Originals

• Newspaper clippings, correspondence and exhibition catalog: are on microfilm, but originals possibly returned to donor, Sara R. Currie. Archives of American Art has the originals of the biographical sketch, the postcards and the printed reproduction of a bas relief of an Aztec Indian by Lenz.

Alternative Forms Available

Microfilm reel D24 (frames 1-106) available at Archives of American Art offices and through interlibrary loan.

Restrictions on Access

Use of original papers requires an appointment and is limited to the Archives' Washington, D.C., Research Center. Microfilmed materials must be consulted on microfilm. Contact Reference Services for more information.

How to Cite This Collection

Sara R. Currie papers about Alfred Lenz, 1899-1926. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.