Robert Gould Shaw Memorial c. 1973 - 2008

This photograph, taken by Richard Benson between 1973 and 2008, captures a detail of the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial. The sculpture, dedicated to the Colonel of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, depicts a group of soldiers marching forward, their faces and expressions obscured by the dramatic lighting of the monument. The detail of the sculpture is remarkable, with each individual soldier rendered with great realism. This work is an example of Benson's focus on capturing the details of monumental sculpture, in this case the historical significance of the Robert Gould Shaw Memorial. The photograph is a reminder of the importance of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry in the history of the United States.