Thea Tewi, The Gordian, 1965, marble, 24 1⁄2 x 11 1⁄4 x 6 in. (62.1 x 28.6 x 15.2 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Charles K. Schlachet, 1969.43
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Artwork Details
- Title
- The Gordian
- Artist
- Date
- 1965
- Location
- Dimensions
- 24 1⁄2 x 11 1⁄4 x 6 in. (62.1 x 28.6 x 15.2 cm)
- Credit Line
- Gift of Charles K. Schlachet
- Mediums
- Mediums Description
- marble
- Classifications
- Subjects
- 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.