Mahonri Young, Riggers, 1943, bronze, 2 7⁄8 in. (7.3 cm) diam., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle, 1972.167.32
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Artwork Details
- Title
- Riggers
- Artist
- Commissioner
- Society of Medallic Arts
- Founder
- Medallic Art Company
- Date
- 1943
- Location
- Not on view
- Dimensions
- 2 7⁄8 in. (7.3 cm) diam.
- Credit Line
- Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle
- Mediums
- Mediums Description
- bronze
- Subjects
- Figure group — male
- Occupation — industry — construction
- Object Number
- 1972.167.32
Artwork Description
Mahonri Young’s images of riggers and riveters reflect his sympathies for America’s laborers as well as the nation’s pride in the most visible symbol of the “American Century,” the skyscraper. Throughout the interwar years, illustrators, advertisers, and fine artists depicted the high-altitude rodeo of sinewy, courageous men riding girders lifted high in the sky. The symbolism carried over into the Second World War, when the nation’s industrial might provided the best hope of defeating the Axis powers.