WILLIAM HUNT DIEDERICH

Diederich's extravagant interpretations of utilitarian objects, including everything from door-knockers and shoe scrapers to fire screens and weathervanes, surprised and delighted both his patrons and critical audience. He defended this aspect of his sculptural work by explaining his belief, 'that art should begin from the bottom, not the top. Art should be useful, should fulfill some specific purpose in our lives and home.' Diederich's democratic approach to art is exemplified in this ostensibly humble trivet, which he invested with the auspicious theme of Diana and the Hunt.