Design buffs may know Harry Bertoia from his namesake metal framework chairs, which have become classics of mid-century modern design. But Bertoia enjoyed a prolific career as an artist across multiple media, most notably sculpture.

The Annenbergs acquired Bertoia’s Peacock in 1967 from the University of Pennsylvania. Writing to the dean of the School of Fine Arts, Ambassador Annenberg expressed his pleasure at securing “this unique work, which both my wife and I are indeed happy to have acquired.”

Located outside the dining room in the main house, Peacock’s hundreds of slender fronds sway in the breeze blowing across the estate’s grounds – a perfect illustration of the intersection of art and nature that makes Sunnylands such a unique and inspirational place.

Bertoia’s “Peacock” from Annenberg Retreat @ Sunnylands on Vimeo.