Solon H. Borglum, The Waters, 1913-1914, bronze, 13 x 11 5⁄8 x 5 1⁄2 in. (33.0 x 29.6 x 14.0 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Monica B. Davies and Paul Borglum in memory of Mrs. M. Nash Bly, 1968.33
Free to use
Copied
Artwork Details
- Title
- The Waters
- Artist
- Date
- 1913-1914
- Location
- Dimensions
- 13 x 11 5⁄8 x 5 1⁄2 in. (33.0 x 29.6 x 14.0 cm)
- Credit Line
- Gift of Monica B. Davies and Paul Borglum in memory of Mrs. M. Nash Bly
- Mediums
- Mediums Description
- bronze
- Classifications
- Subjects
- Figure female — nude
- Figure female — full length
- Allegory — element — water
- Object Number
- 1968.33
Artwork Description
Solon Borglum’s The Waters, also called The Little Lady of the Dew, was displayed in a church courtyard where the nude figure caused a sensation. Many Americans of the time considered “unclothed” statues immoral, but Borglum felt that her nudity was natural and true, like the beautiful streams, rivers, and lakes that God created. The artist designed the piece so that the woman’s graceful gestures would echo the beauty of the water.
