Lot 1161: Auguste Saint Gauden "Diana" Sculpture

Augustus Saint-Gaudens (1848–1907) was an American sculptor renowned for his contributions to the world of fine arts, particularly for his sculptures of historical figures and public monuments. Here are key points about Augustus Saint-Gaudens:1. **Early Life**: Augustus Saint-Gaudens was born on March 1, 1848, in Dublin, Ireland. His family emigrated to the United States when he was an infant, and he grew up in New York City.2. **Artistic Education**: Saint-Gaudens received his artistic training in the United States and Europe. He studied at the Cooper Union in New York and later attended the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris.3. **Return to the United States**: After completing his studies in Europe, Saint-Gaudens returned to the United States and established himself as a prominent sculptor in New York City.4. **Civil War Monuments**: Saint-Gaudens gained early recognition for his sculptures commemorating heroes of the American Civil War. Notable works include the "Shaw Memorial" (1884-1897), honoring Colonel Robert Gould Shaw and the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry.5. **Statue of Admiral Farragut**: One of his early major public sculptures was the statue of Admiral David Farragut in Madison Square Park, New York City (1881). It was one of the first works to establish his reputation.6. **Cornish Art Colony**: Seeking a quieter and more focused environment for his work, Saint-Gaudens established a studio in Cornish, New Hampshire. The area became known as the Cornish Art Colony, attracting other artists and intellectuals.7. **Commissions and Public Monuments**: Saint-Gaudens received numerous commissions for public monuments, including the iconic "Standing Lincoln" (1887) in Chicago's Lincoln Park and the "Sherman Monument" (1892–1903) in New York's Grand Army Plaza.8. **The 20 Gold Double Eagle Coin**: Saint-Gaudens was selected by President Theodore Roosevelt to redesign the 20 gold coin. The resulting design, known as the Saint-Gaudens double eagle, is considered one of the most beautiful coins in American numismatic history.9. **Adams Memorial**: One of Saint-Gaudens's poignant works is the "Adams Memorial" (1886–1891) in Rock Creek Cemetery, Washington, D.C. It was commissioned as a memorial to Marian "Clover" Hooper Adams.10. **Legacy and Influence**: Augustus Saint-Gaudens is regarded as one of the greatest American sculptors of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His ability to capture lifelike expressions and emotions in his sculptures set him apart.11. **Death**: Augustus Saint-Gaudens passed away on August 3, 1907, in Cornish, New Hampshire.12. **Recognition**: In 1905, Saint-Gaudens was elected a full member of the National Academy of Design, and he received numerous honors during his career. His influence extended beyond his own work, as he mentored several younger artists who became prominent in their own right.Augustus Saint-Gaudens's works, marked by their realism and emotional depth, continue to be admired for their artistic excellence. His impact on American sculpture and the broader field of fine arts is celebrated, and his legacy endures through the monuments and coins that bear his artistic imprint.
Measures 15.25 x 11.5 x 5.25.
Bonded bronze.