"King Saul" Marionette c. 1937

Elmer Weise created this watercolor of a “King Saul” marionette. We can consider this artwork alongside the growth of puppetry as entertainment in the United States in the early to mid-20th century. The visual codes here—Saul’s helmet and regal attire—speak to a grand historical narrative. Yet, the puppet form adds a layer of irony, highlighting the theatricality and potential for manipulation inherent in representations of power. This artwork invites questions about how historical and biblical figures are presented and reinterpreted through popular culture. Was Weise commenting on the nature of leadership, or perhaps the way stories are passed down through generations? Art historical research can uncover the cultural context surrounding puppetry during Weise's time. By looking into archives related to theater, entertainment, and art education, we can deepen our understanding of this artwork and how it reflects the social and institutional forces at play.