The artwork titled “Columbus,” created by Edmonia Lewis in 1867, is a marble sculpture that belongs to the Neoclassicism art movement. The genre of the artwork is sculpture, and it is currently housed in the High Museum of Art in Atlanta, Georgia, United States.
The sculpture masterfully portrays Christopher Columbus with meticulous attention to detail. Columbus is standing tall, exuding confidence and authority, his right hand holding a document symbolizing the maps or decrees associated with his voyages. His attire, reminiscent of the 15th century, is rendered with intricate folds and textures, highlighting the sculptor’s skill in working with marble. Beside him, kneeling on one knee, is a figure that could represent one of the indigenous people Columbus encountered, adding a narrative depth to the piece. The figure looks up towards Columbus, hand resting on its chest in what could be interpreted as admiration, supplication, or curiosity. The overall composition of the artwork reflects the classical influences and the storytelling capabilities emblematic of the Neoclassical style.
