The Gordian

Media - 1969.43 - SAAM-1969.43_1 - 64210
Copied Thea Tewi, The Gordian, 1965, marble, 24 1211 146 in. (62.128.615.2 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Charles K. Schlachet, 1969.43

Artwork Details

Title
The Gordian
Artist
Date
1965
Dimensions
24 1211 146 in. (62.128.615.2 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Charles K. Schlachet
Mediums
Mediums Description
marble
Classifications
Keywords
  • Abstract
Object Number
1969.43

Artwork Description

Thea Tewi’s The Gordian was probably inspired by the legend of the Gordian knot, in which a young peasant-turned-king named Gordias tied his oxcart to a post with an intricate knot. People believed that whoever could untie the knot would become king of Asia. The legend relates that, in 333 BC, Alexander the Great released the oxcart and became ruler of many kingdoms. In this sculpture, Tewi carved marble to evoke several intertwined strips of fabric or rope. The title underscores the marble’s permanence and the fact that this “knot” can never be untied.