Paul Manship, United Fruit Company Medal (obverse), 1943, bronze, 1 3⁄4 in. (4.5 cm) diam., Smithsonian American Art Museum, Bequest of Paul Manship, 1966.47.137
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Artwork Details
- Title
- United Fruit Company Medal (obverse)
- Artist
- Date
- 1943
- Location
- Not on view
- Dimensions
- 1 3⁄4 in. (4.5 cm) diam.
- Credit Line
- Bequest of Paul Manship
- Mediums
- Mediums Description
- bronze
- Classifications
- Subjects
- Animal — bird — eagle
- Allegory — arts and sciences — industry
- Architecture — boat — detail
- Object Number
- 1966.47.137
Artwork Description
The United Fruit Company was founded in 1899 and by midcentury was one of the largest employers in Central America. Paul Manship’s artist’s sample shows the obverse of the true medal, which was awarded “for meritorious service at sea.” The American eagle rests upon an anchor, which, during the interwar years, often symbolized maritime trade between North America and Central and South America.