Man Ray, Indestructible Object 1923–1965

Indestructible Object 1923–1965

Artist: Man Ray (1890–1976)
Medium: Metronome with cutout photograph of Lee Miller’s eye on pendulum
Dimensions: 25 × 14 × 14 cm (9⅞ × 5½ × 5½ in.)
Edition: 100
Signature: Signed in pen on a label affixed to the reverse
Publisher: Edition MAT (Multiplication d’Art Transformable), Paris
Condition: Generally good condition; contained within the original presentation box
Literature: Martin, Hermann & Krauss 32

Authenticity: Confirmed by Andrew Strauss and Timothy Baum of the Man Ray Expertise Committee (ref. 00600-O-2025); to be included in the forthcoming Catalogue of Objects and Sculpture of Man Ray

Description

Originally conceived in 1923 and recreated in later editions, Objet Indestructible (or Indestructible Object) stands as one of Man Ray’s most emblematic and enigmatic works. The piece transforms a simple metronome — a tool of mechanical rhythm — into a surreal fusion of movement, memory, and emotion through the addition of Lee Miller’s photographed eye on its pendulum. The steady swing of the metronome becomes hypnotic, evoking both the artist’s longing and the passage of time. As with many of Man Ray’s objects, humor and desire intertwine, turning an everyday item into a poetic symbol of loss and artistic obsession. Published by Edition MAT in 1965 in an edition of 100, this work faithfully reinterprets the 1930s original while extending its influence across generations of conceptual and Dada-inspired art. Contained within its original presentation box and authenticated by the Man Ray Expertise Committee, Objet Indestructible / Indestructible Object endures as a quintessential icon of avant-garde art.

Shipping & Delivery

✔ Worldwide shipping from France
✔ Professional packaging with insurance
✔ Tracking number included for secure delivery
✔ Delivered with a certificate of authenticity

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FAQ 

Is this Man Ray artwork an original edition?

Yes, this is an authentic 1965 edition of Indestructible Object, produced by Edition MAT in an edition of 100. It is signed by Man Ray on a label affixed to the reverse and confirmed authentic by the Man Ray Expertise Committee.

What materials were used for this edition?

The artwork consists of a functional metronome with a cutout photograph of Lee Miller’s eye attached to the pendulum—an iconic combination central to Man Ray’s surrealist vocabulary.

Does the artwork come with documentation?

Yes. The work is delivered with a certificate of authenticity and includes official confirmation from Andrew Strauss and Timothy Baum of the Man Ray Expertise Committee (ref. 00600-O-2025).

Is this edition a good investment?

Man Ray’s Edition MAT multiples are highly collectible, especially historical objects such as Indestructible Object, which hold a central place in Surrealism and conceptual art. Limited editions of 100 with expert authentication are particularly desirable.

Does the artwork come with its original box?

Yes, the piece is preserved in its original presentation box and remains in generally good condition.

Is worldwide shipping available?

Yes, we ship worldwide from France with full insurance, professional packaging, and tracking to ensure secure delivery.