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Summary:
Ball writes to Hutchings [sic] of Washington, D.C. regarding Ball's proposed design for a statue of [Daniel] Webster to be erected in Washington. Ball argues for a figure dressed in classical garb, considering it more appropriate for the city than the contemporary costume of three other Webster statues Ball had done in other cities. Ball indicates that he has enclosed photographs for Hutchings to review.
In addition, Ball writes, "I only regret that we are too late to submit my design to Mr. Corcoran, the old friend of Mr. Webster, and of Art. I think he would have been pleased with it." In closing, Ball expresses hope "to have Congress make an appropriation for it. They do such things some times, and for less worthy objects."
Citation:
Thomas Ball letter to Stilson Hutchins, 1888 March 30. Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution.
Additional Forms:
35mm microfilm reel D8 (frames 297-298) available at Archives of American Art offices and through interlibrary loan.
Biography Note:
Sculptor, miniature and portrait painter, and musician. Born in Charlestown, Mass., studied in Italy.
Language Note:
English .
Provenance:
Donated 1955-1962 by Charles E. Feinberg. Feinberg was a long time friend and active donor to AAA.
Location Note:
Archives of American Art, Smithsonian Institution, 750 9th St. NW, Washington, D.C. 20001
Topic:
Sculpture, American -- Washington (D.C.) Search this