92. William Edmondson, Eagle
In every culture, there’s an eagle. Always and everywhere, we humans regard this creature with awe. Its resplendence, its fearsomeness, the fact that it flies higher than any other bird, the fact that no predator can touch it: how could we not associate it with divinity? But there’s more in this sculpture than a caricature of power with a piercing cry and mightily spread wings. Here, the expressiveness of the creature’s face and the overall stillness speak to something close to tenderness. You can feel the artist’s hands, his attention and love of touch, in the bird’s calm, solid mass.
Too many emails? For instructions on receiving a weekly recap, click here.
This post is part of MFAH 100, a series featuring works from the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, in honor of its 100th birthday. 100 words on 100 works in 100 days.
Have a piece you’d like me to consider? Send a message or leave a comment—I can’t promise I’ll include it but I will give it a serious look.
Yes....thank ou
One of my favorites! I have always admired this work.