Amidst the United States' numerous transformations, challenges and progress, artists played a crucial role in identifying, narrating and expressing the ever-evolving ideals of this grand experiment. The creative minds of these visionaries gave rise to a national narrative that mirrors the uniqueness of the country's expansive terrain. For many, this artistic narrative embodies pride, triumph and unwavering perseverance.
A Frenchman Visits America: Tocqueville’s Observations on American Art
Alexis de Tocqueville by Théodore Chassériau. 1850. Source.
Alexis De Tocqueville, a brilliant French aristocrat who visited America in 1831, offered perceptive and often accurate insights into the American experiment. As a product of the French Revolution, Tocqueville was struck by various aspects of a society emerging from Enlightenment ideals. While the concept of democracy wasn't novel to either Tocqueville or the founding fathers of the United States, at the time of the nation's founding, having democracy as the foundational principle of a vast nation was unprecedented.
Tocqueville compiled his many observations into his seminal book, Democracy in America. In this book, Tocqueville predicted that America would rise as a global powerhouse due to its industrial and scientific innovation, a suggestion that has been proven undeniably true. The scholar also did not shy away from offering candid critiques, highlighting what he termed the inevitable mediocrity that could arise in a democratic society.
Having emerged from the French Revolution, Tocqueville admired the apparent tranquility and stability of American society. Though, in his view, the absence of a discerning aristocracy to set the standards for artistic excellence meant that America would struggle to produce great works of art. Tocqueville contended that American artists would be simply unable to create transcendent or emotionally resonant works of art. He attributed this limitation to the pragmatic nature of American society, where functionality consistently took precedence over genuine beauty:
“Democratic nations, amongst which all these things exist, will therefore cultivate the arts which serve to render life easy, in preference to those whose object is to adorn it. They will habitually prefer the useful to the beautiful, and they will require that the beautiful should be useful.
An American Artistic Identity Emerges
Portrait of Laurence Millet by John Singer Sargent. 1887. M.S. Rau.
Both before and after Tocqueville's visit, American visual artists, writers, musicians and others were actively working to establish a cohesive creative vision—a distinct artistic identity that drew from Western tradition while being deeply rooted in the United States' unique history and identity. As seen in this portrait by the great John Singer Sargent,
the American artist experimented with what was then a modern and wholly unique painting technique—a mix of the Impressionist and Academic styles. Highly successful both in the United States and across the globe, Sargent helped prove that Americans could and would build upon the great traditions of art history.
As the United States’ population grew exponentially and underwent significant industrial and geographical expansion during the 19th and 20th centuries, the nation became increasingly enriched by the diverse cultural traditions brought by immigrants and inhabitants. Rather than a mere "melting pot," the American artistic identity transformed into a dynamic "gumbo pot" of cultural amalgamation, deviating from Tocqueville's 1840 prediction of a utilitarian and homogenous population.
Folk Artists: Storytellers of American History and Culture
In the United States, folk art holds a profound significance that resonates across cultures and communities, embracing both the utilitarian and the ornamental aspects of life. While definitions of folk art vary, the term commonly pertains to items that serve a practical purpose rather than purely ornamental ones.
Puritan spoon by Stephen Venables. Circa 1652–53. Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When the United States’ first European inhabitants came across the Atlantic, they landed on American soil with the goal of creating a society that was warm, hospitable and familiar. As such, many English settlers built homes and furnishings that closely resembled 17th-century Britain.
Though Puritan settlers, the earliest European inhabitants of Massachusetts Bay Colony, prized themselves for their piety and simplicity, many artisans took great care to craft quits, bonnets and home ornamentations that were both functional and beautiful. From its very inception, the people of the United States seldom separated functionality from art.
Preserving Culture Through Art
Cameo of Chief Billy Bowlegs. Circa 1855. M.S. Rau.
Throughout the United States, the indigenous populations and immigrant communities have maintained and celebrated their cultural legacies by passing down skills, artisanal expertise and traditions, often evident through the creation of folk art. This genre of art holds a dual allure, captivating both local communities and the broader art market. Undeniably, folk art holds a time-honored universality, as the simple act of blending customs with fresh innovation transcends class, status, culture, ethnicity, gender and religion.
In a nation shaped by migration, folk art stands as a cornerstone of the American artistic identity. The spectrum of American folk artists, from those crafting functional furniture and textiles to those creating intricate books, continues to produce utilitarian pieces of art that honor their unique heritage while keeping the traditions alive in the present day.
Founding Fathers in Art: Capturing the Spirit of a Nation
The Nation’s First President
From the United States’ political inception, the founding fathers understood the need to have an honorable figurehead in the executive branch of their new republic. George Washington, often hailed as the father of the United States, left an indelible mark on the nation through his presidency, shaping enduring precedents that have continued to influence successive American leaders.
Among his significant contributions, perhaps one of the most noteworthy was the way he approached his role with prudence, avoiding any semblance of tyranny. Pioneering the cabinet system, he curated a circle of advisors to collaboratively guide decision-making. Further, the judicious exercise of his veto power further underscored his balanced approach, as he employed this authority sparingly, wielding it only to reject two bills during his presidential tenure.
George Washington's Hair And Funerary Case Shavings. M.S. Rau.
Many historians argue that the most important precedent set by Washington was his voluntary withdrawal from the presidency after two terms in office. Although this decision carried risks and was heavily ill-advised by many of his cabinet members, Washington believed in the vital principle of term limits.
Washington’s legacy has taken on mythological proportions since his death, which makes it difficult, at times, to remember that this great leader was once a living man. These incredible artifacts from the Washingtons’ Mount Vernon home are incredible reminders of what made Washington into the revered statesman he was, his humility.
Martha Washington's Hair Comb. 18th Century. M.S. Rau.
Entering a Modern Era: Industrialization and a Shifting Political Landscape
The Turn of the Century and New Leadership
Portrait of Theodore Roosevelt by Joseph A. Imhof. 1917. M.S. Rau.
Assuming office as the initial president following the turn of the century, 104 years after Washington’s tenure in office, Theodore Roosevelt emerges as the pioneer of the "modern" presidency.
This epoch found America in the throes of a burgeoning industrial era, a context in which Roosevelt orchestrated an unprecedented expansion of presidential authority, positioning himself at the very heart of the political stage. With unwavering commitment, he wholeheartedly embraced his role as the nation's leader, leaving an indelible mark through a series of robust reforms including the establishment of a National Parks System and the expansion of the nation's power as a "moral arbiter" for developing countries.
A striking oil portrait on canvas by American artist Joseph Adam Imhof masterfully captures the distinct features of Roosevelt, encompassing his iconic bespectacled eyes and trademark mustache. Through the leader's penetrating gaze and tightly clenched fist, an air of composed intensity is conveyed, echoing the essence of Roosevelt's famed adage: "Speak softly and carry a big stick."
Americana Antiques: Unraveling the Allure of American Icons
The Statue of Liberty
Much like the way Paris is synonymous with its Eiffel Tower, almost every major city has an iconic symbol of its history, prominence and aesthetic. When a visiting art professor recently encountered this remarkable painting, he humorously remarked, "Not only is it the most renowned sculpture globally, but also the most universally recognizable artwork." Upon reflection, his assertion was undeniably accurate. The Statue of Liberty stands alone as a symbol recognized worldwide, transcending art appreciation to represent the unification of great nations and freedom.
The date of its reveal, October 28, 1886, marked a unique spectacle in New York City. With President Grover Cleveland at the helm, more than a million onlookers converged to witness a grand procession spanning two miles, a vivid display of electric lights guiding the way. Amidst the sounds of brass bands, cannons and sirens, an atmosphere of eager excitement prevailed. Upon reaching the harbor, a stunning assembly of 300 adorned ships orchestrated a naval parade, ultimately guiding the procession to the feet of Lady Liberty herself.
Statue Of Liberty Celebration, October 28, 1886 By Frederic Rondel. Circa 1887. M.S. Rau.
This magnificent 19th-century masterpiece, Statue of Liberty Celebration, October 28, 1886 by Frederick Rondel, seizes the scene of enthralled spectators aboard their vessels, witnessing Lady Liberty emerge through the clouds. As a French artist residing in New York, this day must have swelled Rondel with immense pride. His joy permeates the lively harbor depiction, deftly guiding eyes upward to the majestic figure emerging from the mist.
Unchanged in its grandeur since its unveiling, The Statue of Liberty remains an enduring emblem of mutual national pride for France and America. It symbolizes the enduring nature of democracy and the commitment to worldwide diplomacy.
Americana Sports Icons
Joe DiMaggio At Marilyn Monroe's Funeral By Lawrence Schiller, 19/75. 1962. M.S. Rau.
While the United States holds deep pride in its iconic structures, enduring symbols often transcend inanimate objects. Beyond statues and architecture, the nation's affinity for influential figures is profound. One such figure, one of many iconic athletes, is Joe DiMaggio. His towering personality left an indelible mark on both baseball and American culture, a legacy woven from diverse threads.
With a powerful presence on the field, he clinched three American League MVP awards and held the batting crown thrice, etching his name into baseball's annals. His record-setting 56-game hitting streak in 1941 remains unmatched. Yet, he was more than an athlete; his demeanor exuded grace, dignity and sportsmanship, rendering him an example of virtue both on and off the field.
Joe DiMaggio’s Jim Thorpe Lifetime Achievement Award. 1992. M.S. Rau.
A cultural icon, he shared his life with Hollywood luminaries like Marilyn Monroe and Dorothy Arnold, and his persona inspired songs and poems, such as a mention in Simon and Garfunkel’s hit song “Mrs. Robinson.”
Through both his career and lifetime, DiMaggio received major awards and recognition, perhaps none so grand as the Jim Thorpe Lifetime Achievement Award — an embodiment of all he achieved during his life and his career. Presented to DiMaggio at the 2nd Annual Jim Thorpe Pro Sports Awards on July 12, 1993, it is one of only four ever awarded. Joe DiMaggio was the second recipient of this prestigious honor; he was preceded by Muhammad Ali, while Henry “Hank” Aaron and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar followed him.
The United States’ Dynamic Spirit
The Giant Cities, New York By Louis Aston Knight. 1905. M.S. Rau.
Much like the iconic hand-woven quilts that grace both art galleries and homes across the nation, a journey through the American artistic landscape reveals a rich tapestry woven with profound insights and remarkable transformations. From folk artists preserving artistic legacy to the profound influence of figures like George Washington and Theodore Roosevelt, America's artistic legacy showcases the intricate relationship between art, patriotism and identity.
As iconic symbols like the Statue of Liberty and sports figures like Joe DiMaggio attest, these artistic expressions transcend mere aesthetics, becoming enduring embodiments of national pride and freedom. The American identity, intricately interwoven with art and patriotism, continues to thrive as a testament to the nation's dynamic spirit and enduring values.
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