Wrestlers

Paul Manship, Wrestlers, 1908, bronze, 12 ⁷⁄₈ x 7 ³⁄₄ x 7 ¹⁄₂ in. (32.8 x 19.7 x 19.0 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of Paul Manship, 1966.47.32

Artwork Details

Title: Wrestlers
Artist: Paul Manship
Date: 1908
Location: Smithsonian American Art Museum
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Luce Foundation Center
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4th Floor
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49A
Dimensions: 12 ⁷⁄₈ x 7 ³⁄₄ x 7 ¹⁄₂ in. (32.8 x 19.7 x 19.0 cm)
Credit Line: Bequest of Paul Manship
Mediums: bronze
Mediums Description: bronze
Classifications: Sculpture
Subjects: Figure group — male — nude
Recreation — sport and play — wrestling
Object Number: 1966.47.32
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1966.47.32

Artwork Description

Paul Manship modeled many sculptures of Hercules throughout his career, and this early model of Wrestlers is thought to show the Greek hero fighting the giant Antaeus. Antaeus drew power from his mother, the earth, so Hercules defeated him by lifting him off the ground and squeezing him to death.