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Moses (after Michelangelo)

Edmonia Lewis, born Greenbush (now Rensselaer), NY 1844-died London, England 1907

Edmonia Lewis developed her skills in Rome by copying classical sculptures. These copies would often be sold to American tourists, providing a much-needed source of income. The original sculpture of Moses by Michelangelo, completed around 1515, stands in the tomb of Pope Julius II in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. To a black female sculptor, the opportunity to emulate such an exalted artist’s work must have meant a great deal. The figure of Moses himself may also have been an inspiration. By rescuing the Israelites from Egypt, Moses exemplified the desire for freedom felt by many blacks during the nineteenth century.

Date

1875

Type

Sculpture

Medium

marble

Department

SAAM

Institution

Smithsonian American Art Museum

Object number

saam_1984.149.1

Credit

Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred T. Morris, Jr.