Riggers

Media - 1972.167.32 - SAAM-1972.167.32_1 - 48120
Copied Mahonri Young, Riggers, 1943, bronze, 2 78 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

Artwork Details

Title
Riggers
Commissioner
Society of Medallic Arts
Founder
Medallic Art Company
Date
1943
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
2 78 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
Classifications
Keywords
  • 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.