The Heavens

Copied Solon H. Borglum, The Heavens, 1913-1917, bronze, 40 3⁄8 x 12 3⁄8 x 16 3⁄4 in. (102.6 x 31.5 x 42.5 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Monica B. Davies and Paul Borglum in memory of Mrs. M. Nash Bly, 1968.127
Free to use

Artwork Details

Title
The Heavens
Artist
Date
1913-1917
Location
Dimensions
40 3⁄8 x 12 3⁄8 x 16 3⁄4 in. (102.6 x 31.5 x 42.5 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Monica B. Davies and Paul Borglum in memory of Mrs. M. Nash Bly
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Subjects
  • Figure male — nude
  • Allegory — religion — heaven
  • Allegory — element — earth
  • Figure male — full length
Object Number
1968.127
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1968.127

Artwork Description

The Heavens, along with three other works representing earth, water, and man, was commissioned for the National Geographic Society in New York. Solon Borglum and three other sculptors were involved, including his brother Gutzon. World War I interrupted the project and it was never completed, but Borglum made this smaller bronze version as well as a larger plaster version, which has since disappeared. Representing the heavens, a male figure emerges from the planets and clouds, looking back to acknowledge his creation. The man has mortal beauty but embodies God’s transcendent powers.