Fisherman’s Idol

Man Ray, Fisherman's Idol, cast 1973, bronze, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Juliet Man Ray, 1983.105.7
Copied Man Ray, Fisherman's Idol, cast 1973, bronze, 16 144 344 34 in. (41.412.012.0 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Juliet Man Ray, 1983.105.7

Artwork Details

Title
Fisherman’s Idol
Artist
Date
cast 1973
Dimensions
16 144 344 34 in. (41.412.012.0 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Juliet Man Ray
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Subjects
  • Abstract — geometric
Object Number
1983.105.7

Artwork Description

Man Ray made many works from objects that he had picked up by chance, arranging the items in a thought-provoking way. Fisherman’s Idol is a bronze casting of a wood and cork assemblage that was first exhibited in 1926. The bronze gives the piece a permanence that the original materials could not offer. The tall figure evokes a primitive sculpture of a mythical god or a talisman carried by sailors to protect them from the dangers of the sea.