Marionette: "King Saul" c. 1937

Elmer Weise's "Marionette: King Saul" from c. 1937 is a detailed watercolor illustration depicting a puppet in the form of King Saul, the first king of Israel. The puppet is shown in a dramatic pose, with its strings visible, emphasizing its artificiality and referencing its use in performance. The meticulous detail in the puppet's costume and facial features suggests the skill and artistry involved in creating such a piece, further highlighting the historical and cultural significance of puppetry. Weise, known for his work in puppetry, captured the essence of a traditional performance art through this piece.