Object Details
Artist
Jasmin Joseph
Date
1966
Medium
Oil on hardboard
Dimensions
Image: 33 1/2 × 23 3/4 inches (85.1 × 60.3 cm)
Overall/Frame: 40 1/4 × 31 1/4 × 1 1/4 inches (102.2 × 79.4 × 3.2 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Clara K. Seley
Object
Number
88.064.004
Jasmin Joseph converted from Vodou practice to Protestantism in 1950. Christian subject matter is ob(…)
Jasmin Joseph converted from Vodou practice to Protestantism in 1950. Christian subject matter is obviously central to this work. Yet the predominating (literally overarching) depiction of an imaginary tree or vine—one bearing an impossible combination of grapes, pineapples, bananas, corn, exotic fruits, and gourds—suggests broader, more universal symbolism of fertility, abundance, providence, and the interconnectedness of earth and spirit. (“The Best Way to Prepare Bananas: Fruits of the Soul from the Permanent Collection,” curated by Matt Conway and presented at the Johnson Museum June 24-August 13, 2017)
