Seven Saints and Sinners [Bronze]
Dublin Core
Title
Seven Saints and Sinners [Bronze]
Subject
Figure sculpture, American--20th century
Description
Small bronze model given to the MFSM by Mr. and Mrs. Leland Doan.
In 1976 Fredericks enlarged these figures from the thirty-inch tall version that he created while at Cranbrook in 1939. These seven figures are in the style of jamb statues found in the portals of Gothic cathedrals. Because these figures were attached to columns, they were elongated with unnatural proportions. The rigid verticality and seemingly forced postures were not meant to be realistic. They were basically architectural elements formed into sculpture. Since these figures were created in the likeness of various spiritual individuals, their columnar form suggested them as being physical supporters of the church as well as spiritual supporters. Fredericks' figures all share this elongated form. They are almost amusingly balanced atop small orbs. Fredericks seems to be mocking the strict and unnatural Gothic style.
However Fredericks' personal style is also evident. These forms are very smooth and stylized with few details. Although these forms are very similar in style, each one is individualized. Each possesses distinguishing attributes. Even without labels it would not be difficult to characterize or even identify each figure. The figure of Temptation is accompanied by a serpent. Her gesture and facial expression are further suggestive of her character. Identify for yourself the distinguishing characteristics of the other figures.
In 1976 Fredericks enlarged these figures from the thirty-inch tall version that he created while at Cranbrook in 1939. These seven figures are in the style of jamb statues found in the portals of Gothic cathedrals. Because these figures were attached to columns, they were elongated with unnatural proportions. The rigid verticality and seemingly forced postures were not meant to be realistic. They were basically architectural elements formed into sculpture. Since these figures were created in the likeness of various spiritual individuals, their columnar form suggested them as being physical supporters of the church as well as spiritual supporters. Fredericks' figures all share this elongated form. They are almost amusingly balanced atop small orbs. Fredericks seems to be mocking the strict and unnatural Gothic style.
However Fredericks' personal style is also evident. These forms are very smooth and stylized with few details. Although these forms are very similar in style, each one is individualized. Each possesses distinguishing attributes. Even without labels it would not be difficult to characterize or even identify each figure. The figure of Temptation is accompanied by a serpent. Her gesture and facial expression are further suggestive of her character. Identify for yourself the distinguishing characteristics of the other figures.
Creator
Fredericks, Marshall M., 1908-1998
Date
1976
Rights
Use of this image requires permission from the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum
Type
Sculpture
Coverage
University Center (Mich.)
Sculpture Item Type Metadata
Physical Dimensions
The Good Influence 33" h
Pious Monk / Saint of the Church 32" h
Eve Knowledge of Good and Evil 32" h
Mother and Child 34" h
Temptation 32" h
Warrior Saint 33" h
The Evil Influence 33" h
Pious Monk / Saint of the Church 32" h
Eve Knowledge of Good and Evil 32" h
Mother and Child 34" h
Temptation 32" h
Warrior Saint 33" h
The Evil Influence 33" h
Materials
Bronze
Catalog Number
1991.153
1991.154
1991.155
1991.156
1991.157
1991.158
1991.159
1991.154
1991.155
1991.156
1991.157
1991.158
1991.159
Object Location
Main Exhibit Gallery
Provenance
1991, September 30. Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Leland A. Doan
Files
Citation
Fredericks, Marshall M., 1908-1998, “Seven Saints and Sinners [Bronze],” Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum, accessed May 10, 2024, https://omeka.svsu.edu/items/show/5190.