Gabriel Weather Vane (Technique) 1935 - 1942

Lucille Chabot painted this Gabriel Weather Vane with watercolor and graphite. Born in 1908, Chabot lived through significant social and cultural shifts, including the Great Depression and the rise of modernism. With its roots in religious tradition, a weather vane often takes the shape of an angel, such as the figure of Gabriel here. Historically, such figures often symbolize guidance, protection, and the heralding of important news. Chabot’s depiction offers a dynamic representation, capturing the essence of movement as Gabriel flies and plays his trumpet. The incomplete wings and legs add a layer of complexity, suggesting the ephemeral nature of divine presence. The interplay between the detailed painting and the unfinished sketch invites us to reflect on the intersection of the earthly and spiritual realms. Consider the cultural associations that angels have held, often linked to messages of hope and change. This piece captures the human desire for connection to something greater than ourselves, urging us to stay attuned to the winds of change.