Will-o-the-Wisp
Artist
Harriet Goodhue Hosmer
(American, 1830-1908)
Dateca. 1858
MediumMarble
DimensionsOverall: 33 3/4 x 16 3/4 x 18 1/8 in. (85.7 x 42.5 x 46 cm)
ClassificationsAmerican art
Credit LineGift of James H. Ricau and Museum purchase
Object number86.472
Terms
- White
On View
On viewLabel TextHarriet Goodhue Hosmer American, 1830–1908 Puck, modeled ca. 1855–56 Marble Will-o-the-Wisp, modeled ca. 1858 Marble For this pair of mythical imps, Harriet Hosmer carved bouquet-like bases to further engage and charm potential clients. Circle Will-o-the-Wisp and discover the swamp sprite’s lively forest friends. This statue and its pendant, the naughty Puck, would have brightened the corners of a tastefully decorated parlor. Though admired for her playful subjects, Hosmer was an ambitious and shrewd businesswoman. Like other American sculptors, she moved to Rome for easy access to cheap marble, skilled Italian assistants, and celebrity clients, including poets, actresses, and the Prince of Wales. Gift of James H. Ricau and Museum purchase 86.471 and 86.472
