Images of the Sun can be found in culture and art across the world. Whether through stylized symbols or associations to deities, its rays have reached all the people who have walked the earth. Because so many have seen the Sun, its symbolism relates to many ideas. It is considered to give life, allowing nature to grow and creating positive energy. The Sun's path along the sky has been used to tell time. Its rising means new beginnings, while its setting relates to death. In this case, visitors will find items from many cultures that have added the image of the Sun to their art.

India

Bamboo

This decorative board is carved with bird and waterfall under a sun. Mother-of-pearl is inlaid into the wood.

Donated by Fellow-Reeve Museum

1995.2.28 Lowell D. Holmes Museum of Anthropology

Mexico

Ceramic

A representation of the Last Supper. The twelve apostles are depicted with flowers and suns for heads while Jesus sits in the center with the head of an animal. Two skeletons are positioned at the legs of the table.

Donated by Evelyn Hatcher

2006.10.9 Lowell D. Holmes Museum of Anthropology

Russia

Wood

The outside of this bowl is painted with a sun and cloud pattern while the inside host flowerlike designs. It was made using a Russian folkart method called khokhloma, in which red, green, and gold colors are painted over a black background.

Donated by Dr. Arthur Rohn

1994.3.1 Lowell D. Holmes Museum of Anthropology

Ghana

Copper Alloy

Small brass fan in the shape of a sunburst. Created by the Asante people, it is used to measure the weight of gold pieces. The full piece is made by pouring melted brass into a clay mold, and additional dots of brass are added on to affect the grams of the weight.

Transfer by Ulrich Museum of Art

2008.02.128 Lowell D. Holmes Museum of Anthropology

New Britain

Tree Bark

A stylized face painted with orange and yellow. Small suns with black dot centers surround the face. The paint is made from natural materials such as clay and charcoal.

Donated by Dorothy Billings

2012.10.75 Lowell D. Holmes Museum of Anthropology