The Secret of Life

1936

Harry Sternberg

Associated Names
Harry Sternberg

Artist, American, 1904 - 2001

This is a drawing featuring a baby in a womb-like state surrounded by scientific and astronomical elements. The piece depicts a surreal juxtaposition of technology and biology with intricate detail. On the left, there is a telescope pointing towards stars and galaxies, with scientific calculations and tools spread on a table. In the center, there is a glowing fetal form encapsulated within an ethereal halo. On the right, scientific instruments such as glassware and a microscope are shown, with test tubes indicating a laboratory environment. Electricity is represented by a visible arc, connecting spheres. The drawing explores the intersection of human creation, science, and the universe.
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Artwork overview


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Reba and Dave Williams, Greenwich, CT; gift to NGA, 2008

Associated Names

Bibliography

1975

  • Moore, James C. Harry Sternberg: A Catalog Raisonné of His Graphic Work. Wichita, Kansas: Ulrich Museum of Art, 1975, no. 129.

Wikidata ID

Q76555555

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