Susanna (#1)

Paul Manship, Susanna (#1), 1948, marble, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of Paul Manship, 1966.47.1
Copied Paul Manship, Susanna (#1), 1948, marble, 37 in. (94.0 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of Paul Manship, 1966.47.1

Artwork Details

Title
Susanna (#1)
Artist
Date
1948
Location
Dimensions
37 in. (94.0 cm)
Credit Line
Bequest of Paul Manship
Mediums
Mediums Description
marble
Classifications
Subjects
  • Religion — Old Testament — Susanna
Object Number
1966.47.1
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1966.47.1

Artwork Description

This sculpture was probably inspired by the biblical story of Susanna. Two elders tried to seduce the young girl while she bathed, but she rejected their advances. In their anger, the men falsely accused her of adultery and sentenced her to death. In this piece the girl dries herself with a towel and appears unaware of the two lechers. Paul Manship usually sculpted in bronze, but may have made this piece in white marble to accentuate Susanna’s innocence and purity.