Pocket Guide -> Media -> Welded steel -> Joseph
Joseph
by Deborah Butterfield · American, born 1949
| Creation Date: | 1988 |
| Media & Support: | Welded steel |
| Dimensions: | 85 x 61 ½ x 90 inches |
| Credit: | Gift of Mary Nancy Davis |
Joseph is named for great men: the biblical Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers, and Chief Joseph of the Nez Percé tribe of Native Americans. Chief Joseph resisted the relocation of his people and led them on an ill-fated journey to refuge in Canada in 1877. Both Josephs endured betrayal and hardship while displaying wisdom and forbearance. Here, the “coat of many colors” of this Joseph is made of discarded equipment, which the artist has assembled on a framework. With sensitivity to human and animal psychology, Butterfield has tried to portray Joseph with the intelligence and benevolence of his namesakes.
