Man in the Time of Solomon

Copied Patrociño Barela, Man in the Time of Solomon, ca. 1935-1943, carved juniper, 18 1⁄4 x 11 x 8 in. (46.3 x 28.0 x 20.3 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Transfer from the General Services Administration, 1985.65.5

Artwork Details

Title
Man in the Time of Solomon
Artist
Date
ca. 1935-1943
Location
Dimensions
18 1⁄4 x 11 x 8 in. (46.3 x 28.0 x 20.3 cm.)
Markings
back lower center in ink: Reinado de Salomon/Patricinio Barela
Credit Line
Transfer from the General Services Administration
Mediums
Mediums Description
carved juniper
Classifications
Keywords
  • Group
  • Figure group
  • Figure group — male
  • Occupation — labor
  • Religion — Old Testament — Solomon
  • New Deal — Works Progress Administration, Federal Art Project — New Mexico
  • Object — tool
Object Number
1985.65.5
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1985.65.5

Artwork Description

This sculpture shows two men straining to move building blocks for the construction of the Temple of Solomon in Israel. The Old Testament describes King Solomon as a fair and wise leader who united the tribes of Israel. These two figures, however, are pushing in opposite directions, suggesting that some people were unwilling to work together under Solomon’s rule.