Description:

Borglum Gutzon 1867 - 1941 A revealing letter by Gutzon Borglum critiquing his Henry Ward Beecher statue, which was symbolic of the anti-slavery movement

4 pages, 5" x 7.25", two of which are blank. On Metropolitan Club Washington DC letterhead. Signed "Gutzon Borglum" and dated "Monday 7-th 1938". Expected folds with a few small smudges, else near fine.

A revealing letter written by Borglum in response to an inquiry by Miss Sharp about reproducing his statue of Henry Ward Beecher. Borglum's response includes his personal critique of his own work, along with how he prices his art. The statue in question is showcased in Brooklyn, NY and depicts Henry Ward Beecher with "Pink", a slave child located at Beecher's feet, who was freed through auction by Beecher in the Plymouth Church. The letter states in full:

"My dear Miss Sharp,

Thank you for your letter regarding my statue of Henry Ward Richer in Brooklyn and your desire to reproduce it.

That statue was produced under trying interfering conditions by the then chairman of the committee. The figure is very bad and I would not copy nor want it copied by anybody. The head is fine, I refused to change that and of course I'd be glad to let you make any use of it as far a my approval is necessary that you wish.

Meantime It costs from ten to twenty thousand to create an heroic statue in bronze with suitable base. There are no plastic models left- Why not let me make a three quarter bust. I have all the material used for the statue except the plastic costs.

Such a bust including the arms in Bronze....could be made completed and delivered for five thousand and made this year. I am working at Marietta Ohio.... if you would like further information.

Very sincerely,

Gutzon Borglum"

A fascinating look at how this well versed artist, who specialized in heroic monumental sculptures, both critiques and prices his own creations.

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