Four Seasons
Artist: John Anansa Thomas Biggers (American, 1924-2001)
Date: 1990
Dimensions:
image: 22 x 30 3/4 in. (558 x 780 mm)
sheet: 24 x 34 in. (610 x 864 mm)
framed:35 x 42 3/4 in. (889 x 1035 mm)
Medium: Lithography
Classification: Prints
Credit Line: Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Lay American Art Fund
Object number: 2002.14
Label Text:The bold colors and repeating, geometric forms created by the rows of shotgun houses in this image make reference to designs in African textiles. The four large, powerful women seem to hold up the houses with their heads alone. Representative of the seasons, each woman is accompanied by domestic symbols: the light bulb in the winter, or the washbasin for spring-cleaning. The black cast-iron cooking pots are African symbols of nurturing and womanhood. The turtles represent the ancient, cross-cultural creation myth where the Mother Turtle holds up the world on her shell. She represents the land and is also a sign of health and stability. Taken together, the symbols in this print suggest the steadfastness of women, particularly African American women, throughout the year.
DescriptionOne color lithograph, signed and dated by the artist, with stamp of the printer.
One color lithograph, signed and dated by the artist, with stamp of the printer.
One color lithograph, signed and dated by the artist, with stamp of the printer.
Not on view
In Collection(s)