Tree of Life

Copied Leo Friedlander, Tree of Life, n.d., bronze, 239 3412 12 in. (58.424.731.9 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Gordon D. Friedlander, 1971.151

Artwork Details

Title
Tree of Life
Date
n.d.
Dimensions
239 3412 12 in. (58.424.731.9 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Gordon D. Friedlander
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Keywords
  • Figure group
  • Allegory — life
  • Figure group — family — nude
Object Number
1971.151

Artwork Description

The tree of life is a motif found in most cultures around the world. It is often used to symbolize creation and in this case, has become the setting for a mother, father, and child. Artists during the 1930s often depicted scenes like this, in which humans were depicted as synonymous with nature. Such images helped reinforce the importance of family, nature, and home during the bleak years of the Depression.