This over-life-size Lincoln by Henry Kirke Brown was dedicated a year before the Lincoln in Union Square, which was also Brown’s work. The figure holds a paper – possibly a speech, or the Emancipation Declaration. The base has the insignia of the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy, plus two eagles. (See the NYC Parks Department’s site for details.)
In the late 19th century, before radio and TV and MP3 players, gathering to sing was a popular pastime. Many choral groups erected busts of composers in Prospect Park’s Concert Ground.
Here’s Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, dedicated in 1897 by the United German Singers of Brooklyn. (NYC Parks Dept. info here.)
The bust of Ludwig von Beeethoven was dedicated in 1894 by the United German Singers of Brooklyn. (NYC Parks Dept. info here.) Baerer also sculpted a Beethoven for Central Park, near the Bandshell, dedicated in 1884. I think the one in Prospect Park is a more interesting and appealing work – mostly because here, Beethoven is looking up and to the side, not down. Have a look at both and see what you think.
This bust of Thomas Moore, by John G. Draddy, was dedicated by the St. Patrick Society of the City of Brooklyn. (NYC Parks Dept. info here.) Central Park has a bust of Moore by D.B. Sheahan, donated by the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick. Both were dedicated in 1879, the centennial of Moore’s birth. Moore wrote lyrics about his native Ireland rather than music: “The Minstrel Boy” is his most famous song.
The bust of Carl von Weber was dedicated in 1909 by the United German Singers. (NYC Parks Dept. info here and here.)
This bust of Edvard Grieg was dedicated in 1914 by the Norwegian Societies. (NYC Parks Dept. info here.)
Concert Grove Pavilion
The Concert Grove Pavilion is full of vividly painted details, but it’s wood throughout, and unfortunately it’s deteriorating.
Next week: north to Grand Army Plaza, including memories of a thirty-year-old wedding cake (not mine).
In Getting More Enjoyment from Sculpture You Love, I demonstrate a method for looking at sculptures in detail, in depth, and on your own. Learn to enjoy your favorite sculptures more, and find new favorites. Available on Amazon in print and Kindle formats. More here.
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