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Unidentified artist
American
Molly Pitcher
United States, about 1890–1930
Carved wood
“Molly Pitcher” is the nickname given to Mary Ludwig Hays McCauly (1754–1832), a Revolutionary War legend who delivered water to her husband’s battery to cool the cannons and the soldiers during the Battle of Monmouth in June 1778. According to lore, Mary—seen here holding a heavy cannon ball—took her husband’s place in the gun crew after he collapsed or was wounded. Molly Pitcher became a symbol of strength and patriotism, particularly celebrated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of the nostalgic Colonial Revival trend. Tabletop sculptures in wood such as this one allowed a wider audience to bring patriotic symbols and affordable art into their homes.
Gift of Maxim Karolik, 1960 60.474
Molly Pitcher
1800–1900
Medium/Technique
Wood
Dimensions
73.02 x 30.48 x 19.05 cm (28 3/4 x 12 x 7 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Maxim Karolik
Accession Number60.474
CollectionsAmericas
ClassificationsSculpture
Unidentified artist
American
Molly Pitcher
United States, about 1890–1930
Carved wood
“Molly Pitcher” is the nickname given to Mary Ludwig Hays McCauly (1754–1832), a Revolutionary War legend who delivered water to her husband’s battery to cool the cannons and the soldiers during the Battle of Monmouth in June 1778. According to lore, Mary—seen here holding a heavy cannon ball—took her husband’s place in the gun crew after he collapsed or was wounded. Molly Pitcher became a symbol of strength and patriotism, particularly celebrated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of the nostalgic Colonial Revival trend. Tabletop sculptures in wood such as this one allowed a wider audience to bring patriotic symbols and affordable art into their homes.
Gift of Maxim Karolik, 1960 60.474
DescriptionAnonymous (Academic), 19th century