Design Classics Man Ray Kuen Surface Silver Pendant Necklace

Man Ray’s favorite mathematical form, cast in 925 sterling silver as a pendant on a silver chain.

The Kuen surface is a mathematical form, a rare example of a surface with constant negative curvature. It is symmetrical along two of its axes and, seen from the side, resembles a human figure holding a disc. Man Ray and the artists of the Surrealist and Constructivist movements were fascinated by such forms, which bridged modern art and the hidden beauty of mathematics; his 1938 photography and his 1948 painting of the Kuen surface inspired these 925 sterling silver pieces. The Kuen Surface pendant measures 1.5″ × 0.75″ and hangs on a sterling silver chain. Wear it every day, close to the collarbone, or over a black sweater as a small piece of art.

Specifications

• Brand: Design Classics
• Design: After Man Ray’s Kuen Surface photograph (1938) and painting (1948)
• Type: Pendant on a sterling silver chain
• Material: 925 sterling silver
• Pendant size: 1.5″ × 0.75″ (3.8 × 1.9 cm)
• Made in: United States
• Item number (MPN): IC-MRKP

Features

• Solid 925 sterling silver
• The Kuen surface, a form Man Ray photographed and painted
• 1.5″ × 0.75″ (3.8 × 1.9 cm)
• Made in the United States
• On a sterling silver chain

Best for

Gifts for art lovers, architects and mathematicians; wear it alone or with the other Kuen Surface pieces as a set. See also: Design Classics Man Ray Kuen Surface Sterling Silver Cufflinks, Design Classics Man Ray Kuen Surface Silver Earrings, Pierced.

Who this is not for

• Anyone who wants a large statement necklace: the pendant is 1.5″ long.
• Anyone allergic to silver (our advice: check with your jeweler if unsure).
• Buyers expecting a figurative charm: this is an abstract, mathematical form.

Why we carry it

We’ve been curating design-led pieces since 2009. Man Ray (Emmanuel Radnitzky) was the American artist who became the leading figure of Dada and Surrealism and of the early avant-garde. The Kuen Surface pieces belong to our Design Classics: icons and forgotten pieces of 20th-century design, re-editioned with care.

Buy once: durability and care

Sterling silver tarnishes slowly with air. Polish it with a soft silver cloth, keep it away from perfume, chlorine and lotions, and store it dry in a pouch or box (our advice).

Frequently asked questions

What is the Kuen Surface pendant made of?

925 sterling silver, made in the United States, on a sterling silver chain.

How big is the Kuen Surface pendant?

The pendant measures 1.5″ × 0.75″ (3.8 × 1.9 cm).

Does the Kuen Surface pendant come with a chain?

Yes, it hangs on a sterling silver chain.

Is the Kuen Surface pendant a good gift?

Yes: for an art lover, a mathematician or anyone who collects Man Ray.

How should I care for the Kuen Surface pendant?

Polish with a silver cloth and store dry, away from perfume and lotions, to slow tarnish (our advice).

What necklines suit the Kuen Surface pendant? (our styling advice)

Crew necks, open collars and simple black or white tops, where its sculptural outline stands out.

Trade pricing for design professionals

Interior designers, architects, contractors and builders can apply to the MetropolitanDecor Trade Program for trade pricing on Design Classics and the rest of our catalog, a dedicated trade support line, and free catalogs and finish swatches. Applying takes about three minutes; our trade team reviews every application personally, usually within one business day. Ordering for a hotel, office, studio or corporate gifts? Contact us with models and quantities and we’ll confirm availability and lead time.

Shipping & returns

Ships in 2–3 business days. Orders over $100 ship free by ground to the 48 contiguous states. All sales are final, so check the size and specifications above before ordering; if your order arrives damaged or isn’t what you ordered, contact us within 48 hours of delivery with photos and we’ll make it right.

Please note: Because this item is made to order or specially sourced, it is final sale.