Photo: TMP
Photo: TMP
Photo: TMP
Photo: TMP

Standard Emission

USA, 1998
Metropolitan Museum of Art
Date acquired:
Materials:
White Earthenware
Form - Functional: N/A
Form - Sculptural:
Installation - small/intimate scale
Method:
Slab-Built
Molded
Hand-Built
Surface Technique: N/A
Kiln Type: N/A
Glazes: N/A
Steven Montgomery | 1959 – Present

Steven Montgomery's workexplores his interest in making pieces that deal with the changes caused by the passage of time. In 1993 he began making the trompe l?oeil machines that played on his interest in castoffs. This work is based on used discarded and decomposing plumbing, electrical fixtures, and engine parts.

He uses various techniques to form his pieces, including hand-building, wheel-throwing, and press-molds. His larger pieces are made in parts that are assembled post-firing. The surfaces are painted with oil paint after the clay is fired.

In 1980 he began making sculptures from discarded industrial components that he eventually disposed of in the Hudson River. In 1987 he returned to working with clay. His clay pieces continued to explore his interest in making pieces that dealt with the changes caused by the passage of time.

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Metropolitan Museum of Art

Montgomery in other collections

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Note:

These records have been reviewed by the curatorial staff but may be incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced.

Last updated: April 22, 2026

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