Artist: Grant Wood (American, 1891-1942)
Title: Shrine Quartet
Date: 1939
Accession #: 99.12.14
Medium: Lithograph on paper
Dimensions: 8 x 12 in.
Acquired by: Dr. Randy Lengeling
About the Artwork: Grant Wood was known to find comedy behind many serious matters. For example, his 1939 lithograph Shrine Quartet depicts four men, thought to be friends of Wood himself, singing at a function held by the Ancient Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine.
The Ancient Order of the Nobles of the Mystic Shrine, founded in New York in 1872, was known for philanthropic work, most famously the Shriners Children Hospitals, which can be found across northern America. These four men whom Wood has depicted are most likely members as they are wearing the official coned caps of the group. The Great Pyramids of Egypt can be seen as the backdrop for these talented singers because the group is influenced by Middle Eastern lifestyles. (from: Milosch, Jane C., ed. Grant Wood’s Studio Birthplace of American Gothic. Munich, Germany: Prestel, 2005. Print.)