Winged goat or bovine figure with seven birds sprouting from body

ArtistAttributed to Lionel St. Eloi (Haitian, born 1950)

MediumStoneware

DimensionsHeight: 8 1/2 inches (21.6 cm)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineGift of Clara K. Seley

Terms

Sculpture
Red Clay
Haitian

Object number88.064.008

Label CopyReligion and spirituality figure prominently in Haitian life—in politics and education as well as arts and culture. The US Department of State reports that approximately 80% of Haitians identify as Roman Catholic, while the remaining 20% are mostly affiliated with Protestant denominations. Simultaneously, according to this report, “Voodoo is practiced alongside Christianity by a large segment of the population.” Judaism, Islam, Freemasonry, and other beliefs are also extant. In this context, it seems reasonable that certain of these works may embody sacred symbolism—if not relating to Voudou, specifically, then perhaps reflecting broader, more animistic thinking. ("The Best Way to Prepare Bananas: Fruits of the Soul from the Permanent Collection," curated by Matt Conway and presented at the Johnson Museum June 24-August 13, 2017)

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