Naum Gabo

Construction through a Plane (Construction on a Plane)

About this artwork

This is one of the first works that Gabo made with the newly invented plastic, Perspex. Gabo found that Perspex was easier to manipulate and bend than other plastics that he had previously worked with. It is a superb example of constructivist sculpture, which is made by combining separate elements, instead of using traditional techniques, such as carving or modelling to create a single form. There are two other versions of this work, one with a black centre and one with a white centre. The work conveys an abstract sense of energy and movement, with planes springing dynamically from the central black area.

Updated before 2020

  • artist:
    Naum Gabo (1890 - 1977) RussianAmerican
  • title:
    Construction through a Plane (Construction on a Plane)
  • date created:
    About 1937
  • materials:
    Perspex with wood base
  • measurements:
    48.20 x 48.20 x 21.60 cm
  • object type:
  • credit line:
    Purchased with funds bequeathed by Mr Alan Roger and help from Art Fund and the Henry Moore Foundation, 2001
  • accession number:
    GMA 4405
  • gallery:
  • subject:
  • glossary:
  • artwork photographed by:
    Antonia Reeve
Does this text contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Tell us what you think.

Naum Gabo

Naum Gabo