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Knock on wood
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Knock on wood, result 1 of 1

Item Details
Public
Available to everyone
Title
Knock on wood
Work Type
Image
Artists' books
Date
2016
Image: 2020
Measurements
1 volume (unpaged), illustrations (some color), 17 cm, in box 12 x 20 x 4 cm
Description
Monoprint, mixed media. Mohawk cover, Japanese and Thai papers. Accordion binding. Variable open edition, signed by the artist. It has been commonly thought throughout history that knocking on wood is a superstitious action to ward off evil. This action encompasses both Pagan and Christian belief systems. The early pagans believed that knocking on wood was meant to drive out mischievous wood nymphs before they took an unfortunate suggestion and turned it into reality. Another explanation for this practice is that pagans believed spirits lived in trees. Knocking or touching the tree indicated seeking protection form the particular spirit and requesting good luck. Some Christians believe this superstition has to do with knocking on or touching the wooden cross and seeking the protection of God. One of the most interesting elements of this particular superstition is that regardless of nationality, religion, or geography, there seems to be a similar phrase in many cultures across the globe.
Repository
University of Puget Sound Collins Library, Archives & Special Collections
Accession Number
Call Number: N7433.4.C425 K66 2016
File Format
jpeg
Binding
Folded Books; Boxes (containers)
Printing/Production Method
Relief Printing; Other
Visual Analysis
Colors; Illustrations; Text (layout feature); Visual
Language
English
Photographer
Kendyl Chasco, Collins Memorial Library
Rights
This image has been selected and made available by a user using Artstor's software tools. Artstor has not screened or selected this image or cleared any rights to it and is acting as an online service provider pursuant to 17 U.S.C. §512. Artstor disclaims any liability associated with the use of this image. Should you have any legal objection to the use of this image, please visit http://www.artstor.org/copyright for contact information and instructions on how to proceed.
License
Use of this image is in accordance with the applicable Terms & Conditions
File Properties
File Name
AB-Knockonwoo-1.1.JPG
SSID
29231572

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