Saint George

Copied Patrociño Barela, Saint George, ca. 1935-1943, carved juniper, 17 x 10 1⁄2 x 5 3⁄4 in. (43.2 x 26.7 x 14.6 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Transfer from the General Services Administration, 1985.65.1

Artwork Details

Title
Saint George
Artist
Date
ca. 1935-1943
Location
Dimensions
17 x 10 1⁄2 x 5 3⁄4 in. (43.2 x 26.7 x 14.6 cm.)
Credit Line
Transfer from the General Services Administration
Mediums
Mediums Description
carved juniper
Classifications
Subjects
  • Religion — saint — St. George
  • Emblem — cross
  • New Deal — Works Progress Administration, Federal Art Project — New Mexico
Object Number
1985.65.1
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1985.65.1

Artwork Description

According to Christian tradition, St. George slew a dragon with the help of God and one strike of his lance. In this carving the top of the saint’s weapon forms a cross to show the source of his miraculous victory. Each of Patrociño Barela’s sculptures is carved from a single block of wood because he believed that this increased its spiritual power.