Fisherman’s Idol

Media - 1983.105.7 - SAAM-1983.105.7_1 - 56333
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.)
Markings
base lower right incised: Man/RayEA
Credit Line
Gift of Juliet Man Ray
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Keywords
  • Nonrepresentational
  • 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.

Luce Object Quote

“These objects are a mystery to [me] as much as they might be to others and [I] hope that they will always remain so. That is their justification, if any is needed.” Man Ray, Exhibition Catalogue, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 1966