Thou Sluggard

Janet de Coux, Thou Sluggard, 1942, bronze, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle, 1972.167.28
Copied Janet de Coux, Thou Sluggard, 1942, bronze, 2 78 in. (7.3 cm) diam., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle, 1972.167.28

Artwork Details

Title
Thou Sluggard
Commissioner
Society of Medallic Arts
Founder
Medallic Art Company
Date
1942
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
2 78 in. (7.3 cm) diam.
Credit Line
Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Keywords
  • Figure female — full length
  • State of being — mood — laziness
  • Animal — insect — ant
Object Number
1972.167.28

Artwork Description

The motto on this medal comes from Proverbs 6:6, which reads, “Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways and be wise.” On the obverse, a robed woman sleeps in the shade of a tree as the day advances. The rest of the proverb appears on the reverse, accompanied by an image of three ants whose intertwined antennae suggest their collaborative effort. The reddish, earthy patina of this medal underscores the natural setting designed by Janet de Coux.