Shoulders of Giants

Artist / Maker Nina de Creeft Ward (American, b. 1933)

Date1998

OriginU.S.A.

MediumLow fired clay with oxides and light glaze

Dimensions42 x 66 x 34 13/16 in. (106.7 x 167.6 x 88.4 cm)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineCommissioned by Iowa State University Parks Library and University Museums. In the Art on Campus Collection, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object numberU98.10ab

Status

On view

Collections

Label TextThis sculpture was inspired by the horses depicted in the Grant Wood designed mural, Breaking the Prairie, and is analogous to a teaching and learning situation. This theme of mentoring is demonstrated by a team of Percheron draft horses. The older experienced horse is teaching the younger horse to work in harness. The title of the work of art is derived from the quotation: "If I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants." Sir Isaac Newton 1675/1676. The alternate title given by the artist is "Doc and Charlie" Doc being the older horse. See drawings UM98.11 through UM98.22 and maquettes UM98.27 through UM98.29 all housed at the Christian Petersen Art Museum.

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