Buy a copy of David and Goliath

Collectible Description

The Smithsonian American Art Museum is home to a remarkable collection of artworks, including the wooden carving David and Goliath by Patrociño Barela. Created in 1943, this piece showcases the artist's exceptional skill in capturing the essence of the biblical story.
The carving depicts two men, one holding a spear and the other a shield, standing next to each other. The intricate details and facial expressions of the figures demonstrate Barela's attention to detail and mastery of his craft. The wooden material used for the carving gives it an aged appearance, suggesting that it may be an antique or a traditional piece of art.

Artistic Style and Inspiration

Patrociño Barela's work is characterized by its unique blend of traditional and modern styles. His use of wood as a medium adds a touch of warmth and texture to the piece, making it more engaging and dynamic. The Smithsonian American Art Museum has an extensive collection of his works, including Untitled and Progression in War, which showcase his artistic range and versatility.
Some of the notable works by Patrociño Barela include:

Conclusion

The David and Goliath carving by Patrociño Barela is a testament to the artist's skill and creativity. As a masterpiece of American art, it continues to inspire and captivate audiences today. For those interested in learning more about the Smithsonian American Art Museum and its collections, visit The Smithsonian Museums and their Art Collections. To explore more of Barela's works, including handmade oil painting reproductions, visit TopImpressionists.com.

Related Artworks

Artist Biography

Patrociño Barela: The First Hispanic Artist Recognized Nationally

Patrocinio Barela (1900–1964) stands as a singular figure in twentieth-century Hispanic New Mexican art, recognized by scholars and artists alike as the inaugural Mexican-American artist to achieve widespread acclaim. Born around 1900—precise birthdates remain elusive—Barela’s formative years unfolded amidst hardship and itinerant labor, shaping his artistic vision profoundly.

His early life was marked by profound loss; both his mother and younger sister succumbed to illness before he reached adolescence. Largely self-educated, Barela pursued formal schooling for mere weeks, demonstrating an innate aversion to structured learning. He embarked on a nomadic existence as a steelworker, miner, railroad laborer, farmhand, and unionized carpenter—experiences that instilled in him a deep understanding of the human condition.

In 1930, he married Maria Sanchez, establishing a family rooted in Taos County, New Mexico. With seven children, Barela’s domestic life mirrored the turbulent currents of his broader world. Legend recounts that a priest encouraged him to repair a damaged wooden santo—a figure of St. Anthony—sparking his lifelong passion for wood carving.

His artistic journey commenced in 1931, propelled by an instinctive affinity for juniper and cedar. Barela’s distinctive style diverged markedly from the traditional santero practice of replicating centuries-old polychrome prototypes; instead, he crafted sculptures imbued with expressive primitivism, surrealism, and a palpable emotional resonance.

The Works Progress Administration (WPA) played an instrumental role in nurturing Barela's talent. Assigned to a horse-drawn cart, he participated in the Public Works of Art Project (PWAP), gaining recognition from critics nationwide—particularly Henry Moore, who likened his sculptures to those originating in Africa and Oceania.

Time magazine hailed Barela as “the discovery of the year,” cementing his place in art history. Two subsequent exhibitions showcased his work at the San Francisco Golden Gate Exposition and the American Art Today show at New York’s World’s Fair, further establishing him as a national sensation. His unwavering dedication to carving—despite facing considerable personal challenges—inspired generations of Hispanic New Mexican artists.

Barela's legacy extends beyond his artistic output; he fostered a family of artists who continue the tradition of crafting sacred objects from juniper and cedar. Today, his sculptures are treasured collector’s items, embodying a singular aesthetic that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

patrociño barela

1900 - 1964

Quick Facts

Artistic Movement Or Style: Expressionist
Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['Santero']
Artists Who Influenced This Artist: ['Henry Moore']
Date Of Birth: c. 1900
Date Of Death: October 24, 1964
Full Name: Patrociño Barela
Nationality: Mexican-American
Notable Artworks:
- David and Goliath
- Saint George
Place Of Birth: Bisbee, Arizona

patrociño barela: The Full Collection

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Collectible Description

Artist Biography

Reproduction Medium

Reproduction Frame

White $1

Blurside $1

Extended $1

P118B $10

P118H $10

P118W $10

P438Z $10

P508JH $12

P508YH $12

P805H $10

P805Z $10

P919BZ $10

P919G $10

P919XJ $10

P959ZH $10

P968JZ $12

W106C $8

W218G $10

W218JH $8

W218Y $10

W307PJ $10

W316G $10

W316PJ $8

W316Y $10

W398PJ $8

W4111J $10

W500HY $15

W500JH $15

W692G $12

W849H $8

W940BG $15

W953PJ $8

H24-GOLD $30

H24-SILVER $30

H36-GOLD $45

H36-SILVER $45

Framed

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Total Price

$ 70

Summary

Giclée / Art Print

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Reproduction Frame

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Nameplate

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Protective Varnish

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Urgent

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Express Shipping

Included

Total Price

$ 70

Collectible Description

Artistic Style and Inspiration

Conclusion

Related Artworks

Artist Biography

Patrociño Barela: The First Hispanic Artist Recognized Nationally