Untitled Flashcards Set

Q: Who created the George Washington sculpture, and when was it made?
A: Horatio Greenough, 1840 C.E.

Q: What are two visual characteristics of George Washington by Horatio Greenough?
A:

1. Seated, Semi-Clothed Figure – Washington is seated with his right arm raised, wearing a toga that exposes his muscular chest and arms.

2. Balanced, Symmetrical Composition – The structured arrangement and evenly distributed drapery create stability and dignity.

Q: How does the artist represent idealism through classical influence in George Washington?
A: The semi-nude body and idealized musculature resemble Greek and Roman sculptures, elevating Washington to a godlike status.

Q: What symbolic gesture in the sculpture conveys Washington’s divine wisdom?
A: His raised hand pointing upward suggests leadership guided by higher principles.

Q: Why is the focus on idealism typical for Neoclassical sculpture?
A: Neoclassicism revived Greek and Roman ideals, emphasizing order, rationality, and moral virtue, portraying Washington as a heroic figure aligned with Enlightenment values. This focus on idealism reflects the cultural aspiration of the time, where artists sought to inspire civic virtue and promote a sense of national identity through representations of historical figures.