Object number2006.4
Bird with Stars
Date2005
Artist
Kiki Smith
(American, b. Germany, 1954-)
Publisher
the artist and MoMA
Printer
Harlan & Weaver, Inc., New York
CultureGerman, American
MediumEtching, drypoint, and aquatint on paper
EditionEdition 46 of 70
DimensionsSheet: 26 x 19 1/4 in. (66 x 48.9 cm)
Framed: 27 5/8 x 20 11/16 x 1 1/2 in. (70.2 x 52.5 x 3.8 cm)
Framed: 27 5/8 x 20 11/16 x 1 1/2 in. (70.2 x 52.5 x 3.8 cm)
Credit LineGift of Lynn G. Straus, class of 1946
Period21st c
Classification(s)
SignedSigned on recto, lower right edge in pencil: KiKi Smith
InscribedOn recto, by artist, lower right corner in pencil: 2005; lower left corner: 46/70
ProvenanceReceived by Lynn Straus as a benefit at the International Fine Print Dealers Association's Annual Print Fair for 2005, from the Museum of Modern Art (NY)Vassar Exhibitions
Label TextKiki Smith often deals with the elemental themes of sex, birth, death, and the human-nature relationship in her feminist and figurative art. She has explored the bird motif in various media, comparing birds to artists in their creative use of materials. Birds also appear frequently in mythology, folklore, and religious traditions, whether as the Holy Spirit or the dove of peace.
DescriptionA black bird, possibly a crow, is placed in the lower half of the composition and irregularly shaped black and grey stars dot the rest of the composition. The work is composed of thin black lines and splotchy areas of black and grey within the stars.
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