United States of America Decoration Medal

Paul Manship, United States of America Decoration Medal, n.d., bronze, 9 ⁷⁄₈ x 7 ¹⁄₄ x 1 ¹⁄₂ in. (25.2 x 18.4 x 3.8 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the artist, 1965.16.82

Artwork Details

Title: United States of America Decoration Medal
Artist: Paul Manship
Date: n.d.
Location: Not on view
Dimensions: 9 ⁷⁄₈ x 7 ¹⁄₄ x 1 ¹⁄₂ in. (25.2 x 18.4 x 3.8 cm.)
Credit Line: Gift of the artist
Mediums: bronze
Mediums Description: bronze
Classifications: Sculpture
Medal
Subjects: Emblem — star
Emblem — coat of arms
Allegory — place — United States
Animal — bird — eagle
Figure female — head
Object Number: 1965.16.82
Linked Open Data: https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1965.16.82

Artwork Description

Research has not revealed the purpose for which Paul Manship designed this medal. The design of the pendant form and the eagle from which it hangs resemble versions of the Congressional Medal of Honor, the highest award given in the American armed forces. This large-scale replica may have been created as an artist’s sample or to hang in an officer’s quarters.