Joseph Henry

Herbert Adams, Joseph Henry, ca. 1911, plaster, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Museum acquisition, XX1

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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.

Title

Joseph Henry

Artists

Herbert Adams

Date

ca. 1911

On View

Not on view.

Dimensions