Edmonia Lewis, born Greenbush (now Rensselaer), NY 1844-died London, England 1907 Search this
Copy after:
Michelangelo, Italian, born Caprese, Italy 1475-died Rome, Italy 1564 Search this
Medium:
marble
Dimensions:
26 3/4 x 11 1/2 x 13 5/8 in. (68.0 x 29.2 x 34.6 cm.)
Type:
Sculpture
Date:
1875
Luce Center Label:
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.
Luce Object Quote:
“I thought I knew everything when I came to Rome, but I soon found I had everything to learn.” Edmonia Lewis, quoted in Romare Bearden, A History of African-American Artists, 1993
