Black Venus
Artist
Margaret Burroughs
(American, 1915 - 2010)
CultureAmerican
Date1957
MediumLinoleum cut on imitation Japan paper
Dimensions14 × 11 1/8 in. (35.6 × 28.3 cm)
Overall, Mat: 22 × 18 in. (55.9 × 45.7 cm)
Overall, Frame: 23 × 19 × 1 1/4 in. (58.4 × 48.3 × 3.2 cm)
Overall, Mat: 22 × 18 in. (55.9 × 45.7 cm)
Overall, Frame: 23 × 19 × 1 1/4 in. (58.4 × 48.3 × 3.2 cm)
SignedBottom right, "M.B." in the plate; Below the image in pencil, "Black Venus, Margaret Burroughs, 50/50"
Portfolioedition 50/50
Credit LineMuseum purchase
Object number2018.17
Collections
Not on view
DescriptionThe piece is a linoleum cut on imitation Japanese paper of a semi-nude, black female gazing out at the viewer. She holds onto a string with her left hand that connects to a pair of overly large fish swimming just out of the water. The string is also within her right hand as she holds onto a cherub flying above her. There are eights cherubs in total, a few of which fan her with palm leaves, and others which are about to shoot arrows from their bows. A male figure on her right side is partially visible, rising from the water below. He holds a spear and seems to where a crown.ProvenancePrivate collector; Swann Auction Galleries; purchased by the Chrysler Museum of Art in 2018
