Benjamin Franklin Commemorative Medal 1906

Editor: This is the "Benjamin Franklin Commemorative Medal," a bronze sculpture crafted by Louis St. Gaudens in 1906. It's quite striking, almost severe, in its simplicity. What strikes you when you look at this piece? Curator: The strength of this medal resides in its clear articulation of form. Consider the crisp delineation of Franklin's profile against the smooth bronze field. The laurel wreath isn't merely decorative; its circular form echoes the medal itself, reinforcing the concept of commemoration and completeness. Editor: I hadn't thought about the laurel wreath echoing the shape of the medal! The inscription is interesting as well - do you see that as purely informative or part of the overall design? Curator: It is both. The use of evenly spaced capital letters for ‘BENJAMIN FRANKLIN’ and a more compact arrangement of the listing ‘Printer Philosopher Scientist Statesman Diplomatist’, provides the necessary information while segmenting the design for ease of navigation and reading. How does the choice of bronze, a medium known for its durability, contribute to your understanding? Editor: I suppose the bronze adds to the sense of importance and permanence. Is it also intended to associate Benjamin Franklin with specific values from Neoclassicism such as reason, order and rigor? Curator: Precisely. The smooth finish, the classical profile, all point toward the Enlightenment ideals of reason and order so closely associated with Franklin himself, as is clearly represented in the work's medium and shape. Editor: I'm starting to see how all the elements work together to reinforce these concepts. Thanks for helping me unpack this piece! Curator: And thank you for prompting that analysis. By examining the form and the materials, we've gained a much deeper appreciation for the intentions of St. Gaudens.