Commemorative Medal

Paul Manship, Commemorative Medal, 1919, bronze, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist, 1965.16.84
Copied Paul Manship, Commemorative Medal, 1919, bronze, 3 1⁄8 in. (8.0 cm) diam., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist, 1965.16.84

Artwork Details

Title
Commemorative Medal
Artist
Date
1919
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
3 1⁄8 in. (8.0 cm) diam.
Credit Line
Gift of the artist
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Subjects
  • Allegory — quality — harmony
  • Mythology — classical — Concordia
  • Object — foliage
  • Object — other — cornucopia
Object Number
1965.16.84
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1965.16.84

Artwork Description

Paul Manship’s medal commemorates the visit to the United States in 1919 of Dr. Epitacio M. Pessoa, president-elect of Brazil. Dr. Pessoa arrived in New York City, then traveled to Boston and Washington, D.C., in ceremonial appearances meant to solidify relations between Brazil and the United States. On the obverse, the allegorical figure of Concordia symbolizes trade relations and diplomatic ties between the nations. On the reverse, a freighter riding the waves symbolizes the raw materials (rubber, oil, and rope fiber) provided to the United States by its trading partner.