Seaman and Siren
Artist
David Smith
(American, 1906 - 1965)
Date1945
MediumSteel, paint, and lacquer
DimensionsOverall: 19 1/2 × 21 × 9 1/2 inches (49.53 × 53.34 × 24.13 cm)
Credit LineGift from the collection of Julia and Humbert Tinsman
Object numberF99-24/7
SignedCursive, engraved into steel base plate at center: "David Smith" ; in Greek characters on "letter" in seaman's mouth: "DS"
On View
Not on viewCollections
DescriptionTwo abstracted figural elements welded to a steel planar base. Left, angular, horizontal figure (seaman) is a composite of a ship with cross mast and a fish with scales and gills. The fish/ship holds in its mouth a cryptic message engraved on a steel plate resembling a letter. The right figure (siren) is vertical and fluid; its form evokes that of a mermaid. It holds a tubular form resembling a speaking/listening horn.Copyright© Estate of David Smith / Licensed by VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York
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