Model for Hodgkins Medal

Olin Levi Warner, Model for Hodgkins Medal, 1893-1894, plaster, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Carlyle Jones, 1974.88.20
Olin Levi Warner, Model for Hodgkins Medal, 1893-1894, plaster, 12 in. (30.4 cm) diam., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Carlyle Jones, 1974.88.20
Free to use

Artwork Details

Title
Model for Hodgkins Medal
Artist
Date
1893-1894
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
12 in. (30.4 cm) diam.
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Carlyle Jones
Mediums
Mediums Description
plaster
Classifications
Subjects
  • Portrait male — Henry, Joseph — head
  • Occupation — science — naturalist
  • Study — sculpture model
Object Number
1974.88.20
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1974.88.20

Artwork Description

When Thomas George Hodgkins donated funds to the Smithsonian in October 1891, he stipulated the creation of an award to recognize scientific pursuits. Secretary of the Smithsonian Samuel P. Langley initially selected Olin Levi Warner to design a medal similar to the plaster version shown here. But Langley and Warner argued over the final design, and French artist Jules Clement Chaplain was ultimately hired to sculpt the obverse. The portrait appearing in this plaster is likely that of Joseph Henry, first secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, who presided from 1846 until his death in 1878.