William Maxwell Evarts 1872 - 1873

This is a marble bust of William Maxwell Evarts, made by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. The choice of marble is significant. This stone has been closely associated with sculpture since antiquity, and it inevitably brings that history along with it. Think about the process involved: quarrying the stone, transporting it, then carving away the excess to reveal the figure within. Saint-Gaudens would have worked with specialist stone carvers, who possessed skills honed over generations. Notice the smooth, polished surfaces, achieved through laborious sanding and buffing. The way the light plays across the form, accentuating Evarts' features, is a testament to the sculptor's craft. While the bust is clearly a work of fine art, it's also the product of extensive labor and a deep understanding of materials. That is something to consider when approaching any artwork. The making is always a key part of the meaning.