Study for Marriage Ring: Preliminary concept

Object NameDrawing

Artist / Maker Christian Petersen (Danish - American, 1885 - 1961)

Date1942

Originu.s.a.

MediumPaper; charcoal

Dimensions16 3/4 x 13 3/4 in. (42.5 x 34.9 cm)

ClassificationsDrawings

Credit LinePurchased by University Museums from Mary Petersen with the Christian Petersen Memorial Fund. In the Christian Petersen Art Collection, Christian Petersen Art Museum, University Museums, Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa.

Object numberum92.218

Status

Not on view

Collections

Label TextSoon after the Fountain of the Four Seasons was installed at the Memorial union, Petersen was asked to design a similar monument that would mark the opposite end of central campus. The sculpture was to be placed on the lawn in front of the Home Economics building (MacKay Hall). Petersen's theme, marriage and children, was the main course of study for most women who attended Iowa State during the early to mid 20th century. The resulting sculpture is a shallow circular pool ringed by a low concrete wall ornamented by three small terra cotta children playing at the edge of the water. The two boys and one girl, likely Petersen's daughter Charlotte, are intended to represent the jewels of marriage. The wedding ring shape is symbolic to the circular never-ending bond of husband and wife.

Locations