The Katastwóf Karavan

Source catalog description

This description refers to material held by Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Visual details below describe the original material.

This is a painted laser-cut stainless-steel maquette in the shape of a 19th century caravan cart. The rectangular, black cart has four wheels, four sides, and a slightly peaked roof. The wagon depicts a violent story of slavery with each of the four sides presenting a different scene depicted in black, laser-cut silhouette figures. One long side of the cart depicts a line of four figures of varying heights, three male and one female, tied together by the necks. The front individual stands slightly bent forward with both hands held out in front of him; the two middle figures have their hands bound behind them; the female figure is last with her hands also held out in front of her. Facing them are three figures seated on each other's shoulders. The topmost individual, wearing tails and a brimmed hat, wields a long whip as he points at the bound figures.

Explore Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture ↗