Vertical Constellation with Bomb by Alexander Calder

Tom's [marquette] by Alexander Calder
Alexander Calder, Tom's, c. 1966, sheet metal, bolts, and paint, Courtesy The Alexander and Louisa Calder Foundation, New York

Mobiles usually were for interiors, while stabiles were requested for outdoor commissions. In response to the demands of large, open areas, Calder began to increase the scale of his work. In order to make large-scale sculpture, Calder developed a new method of production. He first made a maquette, or scale model, which he then took to a commercial foundry where the equipment and space required for the full-scale work were available. Although his method of production became more industrial, Calder remained deeply invested. He was active throughout the process, often visiting the site to inspect progress and make adjustments.