Gallery Hunt: What Does Power Look Like?
Find these works in the VMFA galleries to uncover power and splendor throughout time and in many places!
1
South Asian Art Galleries, Level 3
An Indian prince rode in this silver-gilt howdah, or elephant saddle, during public celebrations. What would you ride if you were a powerful ruler?
2
Ancient Art Galleries, Level 2
In the Greek galleries, find this strong woman of the ancient world who appears on an alabastron (perfume bottle). What has the artist given this Amazon warrior to convey her power?
3
Ancient Art Galleries, Level 2
This sculpture of Senkamanisken, King of Kush, originally appeared with the kilt, armbands, and jewelry covered in gold. Stand like this king. How would you describe your pose? Do you feel powerful?
4
Ancient Art Galleries, Level 2
Enter the nearby Classical Court to find a statue of the Roman emperor Caligula. His image resembles representations of Julius Caesar and Augustus, his powerful ancestors. Can you think of anyone else in history or the present day who makes connections with past rulers?
5
African Art Galleries, Level 2
The royal regalia of this Benin Chief, including a paddle-shaped sword, leopard-tooth necklace, and other rich apparel, communicate his power and status within Benin culture. What else about him tells us he is powerful?
6
Fabergé and Russian Decorative Arts Galleries, Level 2
Look for the Imperial Column Portrait Frame that holds a portrait of Tsar Nicholas II. Many rulers have widely distributed their own images to heighten their prestige. What are some other dazzling objects with images of important people?
Images (as details)
1 Howdah, ca. 1896-1917, Unknown, Silver, gilded silver, wood, velvet, glass, paint, Robert A. and Ruth W. Fisher Fund, 2004.17a-b
2 Alabastron (Perfume Bottle), ca. 460 BC, Greek, attributed to Syriskos Painter, terracotta, Adolph D. and Wilkins C. Williams Fund, 78.145
3 Statue of Senkamanisken, King of Kush, 643–623 BC, Egyptian, Adolph D. and Wilkins C. Williams Fund, 53.30.2
4 Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus Germanicus (“Caligula”), ca. 38 AD, Roman, marble, Arthur and Margaret Glasgow Fund, 71.20
5 Plaque of Benin Chief, 16th-17th century, Benin (Nigeria), bronze, Arthur and Margaret Glasgow Fund, 83.136
6 Imperial Column Portrait Frame, 1908, Fabergé firm, Russian, 1842 – 1917, gold, silver, diamonds, Bequest of Lillian Thomas Pratt, 47.20.367
