Untitled (Purple Fish)
Nellie Mae Rowe
American, 1900–1982

Details
Title
Untitled (Purple Fish)
Artist/Maker
Nellie Mae Rowe (American, 1900–1982)
Date
1978–1982
Medium
Crayon, gouache, and pencil on paper
Dimensions
27 1/2 x 32 3/4 inches
Credit
Gift of Judith Alexander
Accession #
2003.140
On View
Currently not on view
The fish was another commonly featured animal in the art of Nellie Mae Rowe. Rowe was a devout Christian, so the fish may symbolize her dedication as a follower of Christ. The fullness of Rowe’s fish might also refer to pregnancy and procreation, in accordance to the Mandé creation myth of southern Mali in which the ancient cosmos birthed twin fish. Although she had no children, she was very fond of them, and often called her handmade dolls her children.
Image Copyright
© Estate of Nellie Mae Rowe/High Museum of Art, Atlanta.
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