Oblivion [reverse]

1945

Berthold Nebel (designer), Medallic Art Company (manufacturer)

Associated Names
Berthold Nebel

Designer, American, born Switzerland, 1889 - 1964

Medallic Art Company

Manufacturer, American, est. 1910 - closed 2016

The sculpture is a circular bronze relief depicting an explosion with a mushroom cloud shape. The landscape below the explosion has formations at its base. The sculpture is a uniform metallic bronze color. "WORLD UNITY OR OBLIVION" is inscribed on the lower part of the relief, flanking the mushroom cloud. The sculpture has a three-dimensional quality, with the explosion protruding outward.
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Artwork overview

Associated Artworks

The sculpture is a circular bas-relief medal featuring two human figures in a scene of interaction. On the left side is a seated man with a bandaged head, appearing weary and leaning slightly against a stone or object; he is shirtless and his pants are slightly torn or tattered. On the right, there is another man who kneels, wearing a helmet and military-style clothing, including a utility belt. This man is offering a bowl or cup to the seated figure, gesturing as if providing drink or sustenance. The sculpture is crafted in a metallic material with a bronze or gold color, giving it a timeless appearance and warm tone. The details in the figures such as their muscular forms and drapery of their clothing are finely rendered, providing a sense of realism and depth. A monogram "BN" is visible at the bottom of the circular plaque.

World Unity [obverse]

Berthold Nebel, Medallic Art Company

1945

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Gift 1946 to the Corcoran Gallery of Art, Washington, through subscription to the Society of Medalists (Thirty-Second Issue); acquired 2015 by the National Gallery of Art.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

across center directly above exergue: WORLD UNITY OR OBLIVION

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