Tom Dixon (British, b. 1959) Full-size Wicker and Bentwood “harley Davidson” Motorcycle Sculpture

Tom Dixon (British, b. 1959) Full-Size Wicker and Bentwood “Harley Davidson” Motorcycle Sculpture England, circa 1990s Woven wicker, bent rattan, and wood A rare and highly sculptural full-scale wicker and bentwood motorcycle by British designer Tom Dixon, modeled after a Harley Davidson. Constructed entirely from woven rattan and bentwood elements, the piece demonstrates Dixon’s early experimental approach to form, structure, and materiality. The sculpture captures the distinctive profile and robust engineering of the Harley Davidson, reimagined through handcrafted organic materials. Every component—from the handlebars, fuel tank, and seat to the engine block, panniers, and wheels—is meticulously rendered in woven cane, achieving both visual accuracy and a playful reinterpretation of industrial design. The result is a remarkable juxtaposition of mechanical form and artisanal craft, replacing chrome and steel with texture, warmth, and lightness. This work dates from the early phase of Tom Dixon’s career, when he was exploring unconventional materials and sculptural forms before achieving international recognition as one of Britain’s leading designers. His interest in transforming everyday objects into art pieces is evident here, blurring the boundary between design, craft, and conceptual sculpture. Comparable examples of Dixon’s wicker and rattan works have been exhibited in design galleries and featured in retrospectives highlighting his early explorations in sustainable and handmade design. Artist Bio Tom Dixon (b. 1959) is an acclaimed British designer whose work spans furniture, lighting, and sculpture. Largely self-taught, Dixon gained prominence in the 1980s London design scene, creating pieces from repurposed materials and experimenting with industrial forms. His early sculptural works in metal and natural fibers established his reputation for innovation and craftsmanship. In 2002, he founded his eponymous brand, Tom Dixon Studio, which continues to produce globally recognized contemporary designs. His works are held in major museum collections, including the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, and the Museum of Modern Art, New York.