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The Ascension of a Child Conducted by an Infant Angel
Horatio Greenough (American, 1805–1852)
1833
Medium/Technique
Marble
Dimensions
Overall: 83.4 x 59.1 x 33 cm, 64.4 kg (32 13/16 x 23 1/4 x 13 in., 142 lb.)
Credit Line
Gift of Laurence Curtis
Accession Number26.46
NOT ON VIEW
CollectionsAmericas
ClassificationsSculpture
Many of Greenough's sculptures were intended for display in domestic settings. Although nude figures often were inspired by Classical and Renaissance cherubs, nudity usually was controversial in the United States. In consequence, Greenough clothed these young boys in a cloak of sentimentality, creating a tender and appealing message of hope and spirituality in an age of high infant mortality.
ProvenanceSamuel Cabot; Thomas B. and Laura Greenough Curtis; Horatio Greenough Curtis; Laurence Curtis (all of Boston).