United States of America Decoration Medal

Paul Manship, United States of America Decoration Medal, n.d., bronze, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist, 1965.16.82
Copied Paul Manship, United States of America Decoration Medal, n.d., bronze, 9 7⁄8 x 7 1⁄4 x 1 1⁄2 in. (25.2 x 18.4 x 3.8 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist, 1965.16.82

Artwork Details

Title
United States of America Decoration Medal
Artist
Date
n.d.
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
9 7⁄8 x 7 1⁄4 x 1 1⁄2 in. (25.2 x 18.4 x 3.8 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of the artist
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Subjects
  • Emblem — star
  • Emblem — coat of arms
  • Allegory — place — United States
  • Animal — bird — eagle
  • Figure female — head
Object Number
1965.16.82
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1965.16.82

Artwork Description

Research has not revealed the purpose for which Paul Manship designed this medal. The design of the pendant form and the eagle from which it hangs resemble versions of the Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest award given in the American armed forces. This large-scale replica may have been created as an artist’s sample or to hang in an officer’s quarters.