Abraham Lincoln c. 20th century

Editor: This is Otto Schneider’s portrait of Abraham Lincoln, housed at Harvard. The sketch-like quality gives it a feeling of immediacy. What can you tell me about it? Curator: Consider how the distribution and reproduction of Lincoln's image served political and cultural purposes. This work exists within a long tradition of memorializing leaders through art, shaping public perception. Editor: So, its display in museums reinforces Lincoln's historical importance? Curator: Precisely. Museums play a key role in solidifying historical narratives through their collections and exhibitions. We are not simply viewing art, but history itself.