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Open 10:00–5:00

Visit
Open today 10:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Admission is always free

6th and Constitution Ave NW
Washington, DC 20565

Sculpture Garden Extended Hours

Open late until 8:00 p.m. on select nights
Through September 5
Exhibitions & Events
America’s 250th

Celebrating American art and artists
Art & Artists
Open Call

Artists Reimagining the Collection
Meet the 50 makers selected from more than 1,600 submissions

Mortar

second half 16th century

Foundry of Caspar Dietrich

Associated Names

Anonymous Artist

Founder

Caspar Dietrich

Related Artist, German, 1525 - 1594

The sculpture is a bronze urn featuring relief work. It depicts human figures and mythical creatures such as centaurs. The figures are intricately detailed, with one central figure holding a spear or staff. The handles are shaped with figures. The color is dark brown typical of aged bronze, with a polished surface. The urn appears substantial and heavy, with depth and texture achieved through detailed carving and shadows. The urn has a broad rim and rounded base, emphasizing its solid form.

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Artwork overview

Medium

bronze
Credit Line

Gift of Robert H. Smith/Robert H. Smith Collection
Dimensions

overall: 21.3 x 21.6 cm (8 3/8 x 8 1/2 in.)
Accession Number

2022.181.5

Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

2004

Radcliffe, Anthony and Nicholas Penny. Art of the Renaissance Bronze, 1500-1650. London, 2004: 16, 40-45, repro. no. 5.

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