Angel of Death

Copied Robert Windham, Angel of Death, 1979, catalpa, 12 x 6 3⁄4 x 7 5⁄8 in. (30.5 x 17.0 x 19.4 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mr. James L. Whitehead and Mr. P. Elliot Ellis, 1980.108.2

Artwork Details

Title
Angel of Death
Artist
Date
1979
Location
Dimensions
12 x 6 3⁄4 x 7 5⁄8 in. (30.5 x 17.0 x 19.4 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. James L. Whitehead and Mr. P. Elliot Ellis
Mediums
Mediums Description
catalpa
Classifications
Subjects
  • Allegory — death
  • Figure male — elderly
  • Religion — angel
Object Number
1980.108.2
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1980.108.2

Artwork Description

Sculptor Robert Windham lived in rural Alabama and drew much of his inspiration from statues and gravestones in local cemeteries. He carved Angel of Death from catalpa wood, a light-colored exotic hardwood that is native to the eastern United States. Windham applied tung oil to the surface to create a rich, golden finish that emphasizes the wood's subtle grain. In this piece the angel shows compassion for a dying man who lies comforted by her enveloping arms and sweeping wings.