Nothing that is wrong in principle can be right in practice.” – Carl Schurz, 1829 – 1906. From the series Great Ideas of Western Man.

Charmion Von Wiegand, "Nothing that is wrong in principle can be right in practice."--Carl Schurz, 1829-1906. From the series Great Ideas of Western Man., 1966, oil and pencil on canvas, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Container Corporation of America, 1984.124.300
Copied Charmion Von Wiegand, "Nothing that is wrong in principle can be right in practice."--Carl Schurz, 1829-1906. From the series Great Ideas of Western Man., 1966, oil and pencil on canvas, 49 7827 18 in. (126.868.8 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Container Corporation of America, 1984.124.300

Artwork Details

Title
Nothing that is wrong in principle can be right in practice.” – Carl Schurz, 1829 – 1906. From the series Great Ideas of Western Man.
Date
1966
Dimensions
49 7827 18 in. (126.868.8 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Container Corporation of America
Mediums
Mediums Description
oil and pencil on canvas
Classifications
Keywords
  • Abstract — geometric
Object Number
1984.124.300

Artwork Description

Charmion von Wiegand was entranced with "the multiplicity of things which lie just beyond the world of appearance." For her, art was a way of tapping into the underlying structures of the universe and revealing its spiritual essence.

The title of this painting refers to the work of Carl Schurz, the journalist, statesman, and reformer who was known for his advocacy of idealism in American civic life.