Joseph Henry

Copied Herbert Adams, Joseph Henry, ca. 1911, painted plaster, 12 x 18 x 21 in. (30.4 x 45.7 x 53.2 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Museum acquisition, XX1
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Artwork Details

Title
Joseph Henry
Artist
Date
ca. 1911
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
12 x 18 x 21 in. (30.4 x 45.7 x 53.2 cm)
Credit Line
Museum acquisition
Mediums
Mediums Description
painted plaster
Classifications
Keywords
  • Portrait male — Henry, Joseph — bust
  • Dress — ceremonial — academic dress
Object Number
XX1
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/XX1

Artwork Description

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.

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