Vinnie Ream commissioned for Lincoln statue
July 28th, 1866
July 28th, 1866
How Long Ago?
158 years, 7 months, 15 days ago
Location
Washington, D.C., United States
Category
Arts & Culture
People
- Abraham Lincoln
- Vinnie Ream
- Thomas Ball
Links & References
Tags
Vinnie Ream commissioned for Lincoln statue
Vinnie Ream, at the age of 18, became the first female artist commissioned by the United States government to create a statue. This significant event took place when Ream was chosen to sculpt a statue of President Abraham Lincoln for the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Her selection marked a groundbreaking moment for women in the arts, challenging social norms of the time. The statue would become a symbol of both Ream's talent and the changing landscape of American art, reflecting a move toward more inclusive representation.
First female artist commissioned by the U.S. government.
Statue of Lincoln became a symbol of female empowerment.
Ream studied under renowned sculptor Thomas Ball.
Installed in the Capitol rotunda in 1871.
What Happened?
Vinnie Ream, born in 1847 in Madison, Wisconsin, achieved a remarkable milestone in American art at just 18 years old by being commissioned by the United States government to create a statue of Abraham Lincoln. This prestigious commission was awarded to her after a public competition, where her skillful modeling of Lincoln's likeness earned her the honor. Her work would ultimately be installed in the Capitol rotunda in 1871, making it one of the first commissioned statues of a U.S. president created by a female artist.
Ream's talent was recognized early on; she studied under the prominent sculptor Thomas Ball. Her dedication and innovative spirit presented a new paradigm for women pursuing careers in the arts during the mid-19th century. The significance of her commission resonated beyond her artistry; it represented an emerging recognition of women's contributions to the cultural fabric of the nation. As a young woman in a predominantly male profession, Ream broke barriers, showcasing her capabilities and paving the way for future generations of female artists.
The statue of Abraham Lincoln itself is notable not only for its artistic merit but also for the historical context surrounding its creation. Lincoln, as the figurehead during the American Civil War, was a symbol of unity and healing. Ream's rendition captured not just his physical likeness but also represented the ideals of perseverance and democracy. The installation of the statue further solidified Lincoln’s legacy in American history, aligning it with the growing empowerment of women in a society that was slowly beginning to shift its views on gender roles.
Why Does it Matter?
The commissioning of Vinnie Ream to create a statue of Abraham Lincoln stands as a pivotal moment in the history of women's participation in the arts. It highlights the shifting attitudes toward women's roles in professional spaces during the 19th century. This event is interesting because it reflects broader societal changes regarding gender and artistic representation, establishing a precedent for future female artists seeking recognition in a traditionally male-dominated field.
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