Images(4)

Black Eagle

MediumWhite pine and paint

Dimensions55 1/2" x 31 3/4" x 18"

Credit LineGift of David Rockefeller

Object number1931.706.1

DescriptionLarge eagle standing on ball. Every feather on breast, wings, and back is seperately carved. The heavy talons rest on a large ball. Mouth is open with tongue carved free. Eye balls and sockets deeply carved. In breast are two large holes (1/2-3/4 inches) threaded for a wooden pole or support to have gone into. One is slightly larger than the other, and appears to be at a slightly different angle. About 3 inches above is a similar hole. Back of the bird is fully carved with rectangular cut across back ffrom which protrude two large iron screws which apparently served to bolt bird to it's support. The whole thing is painted black with traces of older yellow paint, possibly a ground or primer, showing through.Label TextThroughout the nineteenth century, many builders and architects incorporated exterior architectural ornaments representing eagles into their designs. Symoblizing the republic's strength, pride, and vigilance, eagles were deemed fitting decorations for buildings intended for both govenmental and commercial use. Many of these eagles were made of cast iron, buth others were carved from wood and either painted or gilded.

This huge ealge was acquired by Mrs. Rockefeller with a history of having been used as a tavern or inn sign near Providence, Rhode Island.ProvenanceBelieved to have been originally used as a sing for an inn near Pawtuckety, Rhode Island. Found in Hartford, Connecticut by Edith Gregor Halperty; purchased by Abby Aldrich Rockefeller in 1931; Given to the Museum of Modern Art who transferred it to the Metropolitan Museum of Art; Purchased from the MET by David Rockefeller in 1955 and given to the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.