Object numberX.51
Bust of Matthew Vassar
Datec. 1860s
Artist
Laura Skeel Hofmann Pomeroy
(American, 1833-1911)
CultureAmerican
MediumMarble
DimensionsSight: 21 x 17 3/4 x 22 in. (53.34 x 45.09 x 55.88 cm)
Credit LineMuseum acquisition
On View
On viewPeriod19th c
Classification(s)
SignedSigned (at left side): Laura S. Hofmann sc.
Label TextExecuted by Laura Skeel Hofmann (later Pomeroy) sometime before 1867, this marble bust was originally displayed in the Art Gallery on the fourth floor of Main Building, alongside other depictions of Matthew Vassar. Vassar often employed local artists like Hofmann, a Poughkeepsie resident who lived less than two miles from campus at 272 Church Street. Vassar determined the bust "exceedingly fine," and Hofmann then submitted successfully her own name for consideration to produce a full-sized statue of the founder. Although not completed in her lifetime, the bronze statue of Matthew Vassar that stands outside of Main today is based on a model by Hofmann.
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge.
To help improve this record, please email
loebcollections@vassar.edu
Duncan Phyfe
c. 1830
Culture: American
Joseph Nollekens
1775
Culture: English
