David and Goliath

Copied Patrociño Barela, David and Goliath, ca. 1935-1943, carved redwood, 13 1⁄4 x 6 1⁄4 x 5 1⁄4 in. (33.7 x 15.9 x 13.3 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Transfer from the General Services Administration, 1985.65.6

Artwork Details

Title
David and Goliath
Artist
Date
ca. 1935-1943
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
13 1⁄4 x 6 1⁄4 x 5 1⁄4 in. (33.7 x 15.9 x 13.3 cm.)
Credit Line
Transfer from the General Services Administration
Mediums
Mediums Description
carved redwood
Classifications
Subjects
  • Religion — Old Testament — David
  • Religion — Old Testament — Goliath
  • New Deal — Works Progress Administration, Federal Art Project — New Mexico
Object Number
1985.65.6
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1985.65.6

Artwork Description

Patrociño Barela never attended church but expressed his devotion by carving figures and scenes from the Bible. In this sculpture the three sides depict the young David, the Philistine Goliath, and another soldier who faces away. Barela carved the three figures the same size because he wanted to show how the power of God made the boy as mighty as the giant.