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Visit
Open today 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Admission is always free

6th and Constitution Ave NW
Washington, DC 20565

Sculpture Garden Extended Hours

Open late until 8:00 p.m. on select nights
Through September 5
Exhibitions & Events
America’s 250th

Celebrating American art and artists
Art & Artists
Open Call

Artists Reimagining the Collection
Meet the 50 makers selected from more than 1,600 submissions

Study for Medals for Dishonor

1939

David Smith

Associated Names

David Smith

Artist, American, 1906 - 1965

The image displays swirling, interconnected shapes and lines forming an abstract composition. A skeletal figure with exaggerated limbs is pulling a rope, which curves and twists through the space. Nearby, abstract forms create the outline of a creature with large, round eyes. Above, elongated shapes mirror the curves of a rider atop an abstract horse, suggesting an equestrian scene. To the side, abstract textures blend natural and surreal elements resembling leaves, branches, and whimsical objects like a stand with a flower.

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Artwork overview

Medium

etching and engraving
Credit Line

Reba and Dave Williams Collection, Gift of Reba and Dave Williams
Dimensions

Image: 248 x 295 mm
Sheet: 315 x 375 mm
Accession Number

2008.115.4486
Catalogue Raisonné

Schwartz #22

Artwork history & notes

Inscriptions

Within the print: lower right, David Smith 1939 (date written in ancient Roman script)

Wikidata ID

Q76443171

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