07-10-201007-10-2010
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsBoston MA
2513Boston
July 10, 2010 10:00 AMCalender
452

Edmonia Lewis (American, 1845-1911) Large Marble Figure of an Allegorical Maiden, Spring

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$27,255$23,000
Auction: European Furniture & Decorative Arts - 2513Location: BostonDate / Time: July 10, 2010 10:00AM

Description:

Edmonia Lewis (American, 1845-1911)

Large Marble Figure of an Allegorical Maiden, Spring, the standing figure wearing classical dress, with gauzy scarf covering head and face, and clutched in one hand at her chin, the other hand holding a rose, on round, naturalistic base, incised at edge with signature and title, and dated 1880, ht. 34 1/2 in.

Note: Edmonia Lewis, also known as Wildfire Lewis, was the daughter of an African American father and a Chippewa mother. She studied for a time in Boston, and then traveled to Rome where she joined the women's classical sculpture group known as the White Marmorean Flock. Lewis's works include scenes of American Indians, as well as depictions of freedom from slavery. She is regarded as one of the first African American female sculptors to gain international fame.
Estimate $20,000-30,000

Marble, not alabaster.
some natural flaw lines in stone, minor handling wear to head and some soiling, a small area of scuffing to spot at back, age typical minor small chips to edge of base

Keywords

Edmonia Lewis, gauzy scarf covering head