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DiaporamaMen of Progress
1862
190.0 x 128.0 cm
National Portrait Gallery
In 1857, the inventor of a coal-burning stove, Jordan Mott, commissioned Christian Schussele to paint this group portrait of nineteen scientists and inventors of the United States who “had altered the course of contemporary civilization.” Schussele represents the group gathered around a table discussing Samuel F. B. Morse’s telegraph device, with other inventions and diagrams scattered about the room. The portrait did not commemorate an actual occasion but was meant to honor national achievement. Schussele began by sketching each figure individually before designing the group composition. In the background, he included a painting of the men’s famed eighteenth-century predecessor, Benjamin Franklin.Men of Progress pays tribute to the remarkable growth of the U.S. economy by the 1850s. It celebrates the inventions and processes of manufacturing pioneered by men such as Cyrus McCormick, Charles Goodyear, Samuel Colt, Elias Howe, and Joseph Henry, first secretary of the Smithsonian Institution.
christian schussele (1820 –)
Explore the portraits of Christian Schussele, famed for designing the American Medal of Honor. See his paintings of inventors & historical figures like Washington Irving.
National Portrait Gallery (London, United Kingdom)
Discover Britain's story through iconic portraits at the National Portrait Gallery! Explore centuries of art, royal figures & cultural moments – a must-see London experience.
About this artwork
- Title: Men of Progress
- Artist: christian schussele
- Year: 1862
- Original dimensions: 190.0 x 128.0 cm
- Format: Landscape
- Copyright status: Under copyright
- Where to see it: National Portrait Gallery
- Main color: Espresso
- Color hue: Yellow-Green Range
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