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Joseph Henry by Herbert Adams / American Art
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Joseph Henry

ca. 1911 Herbert Adams Born: Concord, Vermont 1858 Died: New York, New York 1945 painted plaster 12 x 18 x 21 in. (30.4 x 45.7 x 53.2 cm) Smithsonian American Art Museum Museum acquisition XX1 Smithsonian American Art Museum
3rd Floor, Luce Foundation Center



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Joseph Henry



Joseph Henry was the grandson of Scottish immigrants and a self-made man who became a prominent scientist. The unit of electromagnetic induction is named the “henry” after him. In 1846, in recognition of his abilities as a scientist, professor, and leader, he was chosen to be the first secretary and director of the Smithsonian Institution. This plaster bust was cast from a full-size bronze in the Library of Congress. The larger statue is one of sixteen that encircle the rotunda, symbolizing different elements of human achievement. Henry represents man’s accomplishments in science.

For more information about this work visit the Luce Foundation Center.


Keywords

Dress - ceremonial - academic dress

Portrait male - Henry, Joseph - bust

sculpture

plaster

About Herbert Adams

Born: Concord, Vermont 1858 Died: New York, New York 1945

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Herbert Adams

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