Frank Dobson

British, 1886-1963

Susannah

© The Frank Dobson Estate

Image downloads are for educational use only. For all other purposes, please see our Obtaining and Using Images page.

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© The Frank Dobson Estate

Image downloads are for educational use only. For all other purposes, please see our Obtaining and Using Images page.

© The Frank Dobson Estate

Image downloads are for educational use only. For all other purposes, please see our Obtaining and Using Images page.

© The Frank Dobson Estate

Image downloads are for educational use only. For all other purposes, please see our Obtaining and Using Images page.

© The Frank Dobson Estate

Image downloads are for educational use only. For all other purposes, please see our Obtaining and Using Images page.

Susannah, ca. 1923 (cast executed ca. 1924)

Artwork Details

Materials

bronze

Edition:

3/3

Measurements

overall: 22 x 12 x 15 1/2 inches (55.88 x 30.48 x 39.37 cm)

Collection Buffalo AKG Art Museum

Credit

Gift of A. Conger Goodyear, 1928

Accession ID

1928:17

Frank Dobson began his career as a painter working in a Cubist style, but following World War I (1914–18) he became increasingly interested in sculpture. Using clean, flowing lines and simplified forms, he envisioned Susannah (also spelled “Susanna”) from the biblical story of Susanna and the Elders, which has historically been a popular subject among artists. While she privately bathes in a garden, two lustful men secretly observe her. When Susanna refuses their sexual advances, they threaten to accuse the young wife of promiscuity. Dobson chose to portray the moment Susanna realizes she is not alone and is startled and taken aback by the elders’ imminent advancements.

Label from Picasso: The Artist and His Models, November 5, 2016–February 19, 2017