Abdiel 1838 - 1843

Horatio Greenough created this marble bust, Abdiel, now at the Art Institute of Chicago, embodying the figure of unwavering loyalty. Note the helmet, a symbol resonating from antiquity. It's more than mere armor; it represents the virtue of military prowess and steadfast resolve. This symbol hearkens back to classical antiquity, echoing in the helmets of Roman generals. It is meant to evoke an aura of authority and moral strength. Consider how the helmet has appeared in countless depictions of soldiers and heroes across history. But here, its significance is not merely martial. It is a sign of inner strength and loyalty. Abdiel stands as a testament to the enduring human capacity for unwavering commitment, a virtue that transcends time and finds new expressions in every age.