Sketch Models of Statuary, 
World's Columbian Exposition 1893. 
The Rotunda of the main building of the Museum is de- 
voted to an artistic memorial of Columbus and of the Colum- 
bian Exposition. The center-piece — the statue of the Great 
Discoverer with uplifted sword consecrating the New World — 
at once attracts attention both as an historical study and as a 
masterpiece of art. The original sketch models of the figures 
and groups of figures ornamenting the main Exposition build- 
ings, and donated by the Exposition to the Museum, occupy 
the entire space around the statue. These models are invalu- 
able as works of modern art, representing the genius of the 
most talented sculptors of the present day. 
In the contracts entered into with the various prominent 
sculptors they were called upon to furnish what are called 
“Sketches” of the sculptural decorations, i. e., the models were 
to be about one-sixth of the full size; from these models the 
Exposition’s force of sculptors prepared full-size work by en- 
larging the “Sketches” six times. All the models were first 
submitted to the architects of the buildings for their approval, 
in order to harmonize the sculptural decorations with the archi- 
tecture. The models here shown are the original “Sketches.” 
No. I — Columbus. By Augustus St. Gaudens. This im- 
posing full-size statue stood overlooking the Court of Honor 
at the main portal of the Administration Building. Translation 
of Latin inscription on Pedestal: 
‘ ‘ In late years the centuries will come 
‘ ‘ When the ocean will loose its fetters 
“And the vast earth will lie open, 
“And Tethis will disclose new countries. 
“When Thule will no longer be the remotest of lands.” 
No. 2. — Statue of the Republic. By Daniel C. French. 
Nos. 3 TO 38. — Statuary on Administration Building. By 
Karl Bitter, Sculptor. 
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