Figurehead: Benjamin Franklin

1935/1942

American 20th Century

Associated Names
The sculpture is a bust of an elderly man with a pronounced forehead and receding hairline. His hair is styled back in waves, and he has a serious expression with deeply set eyes and a slightly downturned mouth. The bust includes finely detailed carving around the man's collar, featuring ruffled fabric and buttons on his vest. The sculpture appears to be crafted from brown wood, evident by the warm tones and visible wood grain. The life-sized scale of the bust creates a realistic portrayal that gives the impression of it emerging from the wall or background. The detailed texture and careful craftsmanship enhance the lifelike qualities of the sculpture.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    watercolor, graphite, and pen and ink on paper

  • Credit Line

    Index of American Design

  • Dimensions

    overall: 41.6 x 31.9 cm (16 3/8 x 12 9/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    1943.8.16357


Artwork history & notes

Bibliography

1970

  • Hornung, Clarence P., Treasury of American Design. New York, 1970: 26.

Wikidata ID

Q64535203

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