Bust of "Greek Slave"
Hiram Powers (American, 1805–1873)
Carrara marble
13 1/2 x 7 x 7 in.
Hiram Powers was one of the most celebrated American sculptors of the 19th century. Born in Woodstock, Vermont, Powers trained in Cincinnati before moving to Italy, where he gained international acclaim. His works, often carved in luminous Carrara marble, exemplify the Neoclassical style, blending idealized beauty with deep emotional resonance.
The Greek Slave is one of Powers's most iconic works, originally created in full-figure form in 1843. It depicts a young Greek woman captured by Ottoman forces and offered for sale, symbolizing the triumph of moral and spiritual purity over physical suffering. This bust version isolates the serene and contemplative expression of the figure, highlighting Powers's mastery of detail in the smooth rendering of marble and the delicate textures of her hair and skin.
The Greek Slave was a cultural sensation in the 19th century, touring internationally and eliciting admiration for its beauty and message. This bust offers an intimate glimpse of Powers's artistic vision and technical excellence, capturing the timeless qualities that made his work enduringly significant.
