Artwork Page for Jonah

Details / Information for Jonah

Jonah

1937

Viktor Schreckengost

(American, 1906–2008)
Culture
America, Ohio, Cleveland
Medium
glazed earthenware
Measurements
Overall: 29.1 x 18.8 cm (11 7/16 x 7 3/8 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 2010.3
Copyright
Copyright
This artwork is known to be under copyright.
Location
Not on view
Print
?

Did You Know?

Viktor Schreckengost lived to be 101 years old.

Description

Cleveland was the leading center for producing figurative ceramic sculpture during the 1930s and '40s, and Viktor Schreckengost was among its most notable proponents. In this example, the artist drew inspiration from the Old Testament, depicting Jonah in prayer as he reclines precariously on the back of a mischievously grinning whale. Schreckengost perceived the humorous character in many of his sculptures of the period as an antidote to the grim conditions of the Great Depression.
A glazed earthenware sculpture, in tan, gray, and turquoise, depicts a large fish with the figure of Jonah on its back. The fish features heavy-lidded eyes and a wide mouth, its body finished with a speckled, matte surface. Jonah sits with hands raised toward a tall, turquoise-glazed arch curving overhead. To the right, a thick tail curls forward. The piece contrasts muted earth tones with the vibrant, curved arch.

Jonah

1937

Viktor Schreckengost

(American, 1906–2008)
America, Ohio, Cleveland

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