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Mitochondrial Eve
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
Mitochondrial Eve
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

Mitochondrial Eve

Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.130118
Object Type Print
Artist/ Maker (American, 1950)
Date 2017
Medium paper, ink
DimensionsOverall W 24 in x L 11 in (61 cm x 27.9 cm )
Physical DescriptionA print with a background image of a woman's face and cord wrapped braided hair overlapped with five sections of images. The five sections depict the images the artist found to represent Mitochondrial Eve.
Historical NoteThe artist provided the following explanation about the inspiration for this work: "The coming together of a spiritual mythology and scientific research was one of the primary elements I wanted to portray in this work. I wanted the image to symbolize the oneness we all share and at the same time connote the scientific proof of mitochondrial DNA research with its conclusion all homo sapiens can be traced back to a single mother ... Mitochondrial Eve"
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to the First Family during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library. Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesDomestic Gifts (National Archives Identifier 66540613)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
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