Robert Gould Shaw Memorial

1973, printed c. 2008

Richard Benson

Associated Names
Richard Benson

Artist, American, 1943 - 2017

The sculpture depicts a group of soldiers marching in close formation. The figures wear caps and uniforms with coats and carry rolled blankets or bags over their shoulders. They appear to be holding rifles, suggesting they are infantrymen. The sculpture is crafted from a dark material, possibly bronze, with a weathered patina. The texture is rough, enhancing the realistic depiction of clothing and facial hair. The figures are carved in high relief, giving them a three-dimensional look. The expression and detail suggest attention to realistic features typical of soldiers.
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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    inkjet print

  • Credit Line

    Gift of Susan and Peter MacGill

  • Dimensions

    image: 33.2 x 26.1 cm (13 1/16 x 10 1/4 in.)
    sheet: 45.5 x 32.9 cm (17 15/16 x 12 15/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2011.109.1.7

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

Q64158939

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