Prints, Drawings, and Photographs Black Snake Blues 1994 Alison Saar, American, born 1956. Published by Brandywine Workshop, Philadelphia. Color offset lithograph Currently not on view 2009-61-71 Gift of the Brandywine Workshop, Philadelphia, in memory of Anne d'Harnoncourt, 2009 |
LabelThe languid woman portrayed here longing for her lover (personified by the snake) was inspired by Blind Lemon Jefferson’s 1920s blues song “Black Snake Moan.” The role of the snake remains somewhat ambiguous, calling to mind its opposing symbolic functions as a protector and a potential deceiver lying in wait. Or perhaps the woman is the one in control—her vacant eyes suggest those of a conjurer. |
