Robert Gould Shaw Memorial

1973, printed c. 2008

Richard Benson

Associated Names
Richard Benson

Artist, American, 1943 - 2017

The sculpture depicts three individuals marching in a line. The figures are detailed with facial features and wearing caps, reminiscent of military attire. They carry rolled blankets or bedrolls on their backs and hold onto tools or rifles across their shoulders. The material of the sculpture looks like metal, possibly bronze, giving it a monochrome grayish-brown color. The texture of the sculpture is rough, accentuating the expressions and details of the figures, which are in profile and appear to be engaged in concentrated activity. The figures are closely set, creating a sense of unity and solidarity.
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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    inkjet print

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Susan and Peter MacGill

  • Dimensions

    image: 26 x 32.9 cm (10 1/4 x 12 15/16 in.)
    sheet: 32.9 x 45.5 cm (12 15/16 x 17 15/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2011.109.1.5

Associated Artworks

See all 23 artworks
The sculpture depicts a group of soldiers marching in close formation. The soldiers are carrying backpacks with rolled-up blankets or sleeping bags, and holding rifles on their shoulders. One soldier in the foreground is playing a drum. The soldiers wear caps and have detailed expressions and features. The sculpture is made from a material with a metallic texture, predominantly gray in color.

Robert Gould Shaw Memorial

Richard Benson

1973

The sculpture depicts a group of soldiers marching forward while carrying rifles and wearing historical military attire. They wear caps, coats, and backpacks with rolled blankets or mats attached. All soldiers face the same direction. The sculpture is made of dark bronze with a patina for an aged look. It is sculpted in relief, showing intricate details of the soldiers' uniforms, expressions, and gear texture.

Robert Gould Shaw Memorial

Richard Benson

1973

The sculpture features a figure on horseback identified below as Robert Gould Shaw, depicted in a military uniform with a cap, holding a sword. The horse is depicted in motion with detailed tack. Surrounding Shaw are soldiers marching with rifles and bayonets, also in uniform, indicating unity and discipline. The sculpture is monotone in shades of gray, suggesting stone or weathered metal. All figures convey movement and readiness, with a forward stride and weapons held in an upward, angled position.

Robert Gould Shaw Memorial

Richard Benson

1973

Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Susan and Peter MacGill, New York; gift to NGA, 2011.

Associated Names

Wikidata ID

Q64158937

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