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Moses (after Michelangelo)
From the collection of Smithsonian American Art Museum. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.
About this work
Edmonia Lewis developed her skills in Rome by copying classical sculptures. These copies would often be sold to American tourists, providing a much-needed source of income. The original sculpture of Moses by Michelangelo, completed around 1515, stands in the tomb of Pope Julius II in St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. To a black female sculptor, the opportunity to emulate such an exalted artist’s work must have meant a great deal. The figure of Moses himself may also have been an inspiration. By rescuing the Israelites from Egypt, Moses exemplified the desire for freedom felt by many blacks during the nineteenth century.
Smithsonian American Art Museum’s own descriptionSubjects
Credit lineMoses (after Michelangelo). 1875. Edmonia Lewis, born Greenbush (now Rensselaer), NY 1844-died London, England 1907. Smithsonian American Art Museum, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred T. Morris, Jr.. CC0.
