Carved Figure c. 1940

Raymond Chard created this carved figure. The exact date is unknown, but Chard lived through a period of intense social and political change. The figure is adorned in what appears to be a military uniform. It’s a portrait of power, and the trappings of authority. The gold epaulets and trim are meant to impress, while the sword is a stark reminder of the authority this man embodies. Yet, there is a certain stillness in the figure's posture, an introspection perhaps, that complicates the symbol of might. We are left to wonder, who exactly is this man and what does he represent? Ultimately, this work invites us to reflect on the cost of leadership and the weight of historical expectations, and to consider the personal narratives that often lie hidden beneath the surface of public representation.