The Tent of Holofernes

Isamu Noguchi

designed 1950; cast 1978

Bronze

J. Paul Getty Museum

Four rigid bronze forms create a skeletal tent. Two interlocking diagonal beams serve as the tent's opening. These beams, as well as a third vertical form, have pointed tops suggestive of spears. Positioned on top of these beams, a single horizontal beam demarcates the tent's top edge. This snake-like form also insinuates violence: its gaping mouth, sharp fangs, and bulging eyes suggest that within the tent lies danger. Isamu Noguchi originally created this form as a stage set for choreographer and dancer Martha Graham's 1950 production Judith . This sculpture is one of three bronze casts made from the balsawood original that appear