American Institute Medal

ca. 1876

Place madeUnited States, North America

Silver

Overall (diameter): 2 in. (5.1 cm)

INV.1337

The American Institute was founded in NY in 1827 as a national organization dedicated to supporting the industrial and agrarian arts. Its annual fairs were in the words of Luther Bradish, 10th President of the N-YHS, "extensive and brilliant displays of the most valuable specimens of domestic skill and industry." John Rogers (1829-1904) created statuary groups in plaster, an affordable alternative to popular marble models. He focused on everyday as well as Civil War and equestrian subjects.

DescriptionSilver struck medal with obverse showing figure of Liberty holding laurel wreath and pole surmounted by Phrygian cap; at left are tools of agriculture and sailing ship in the background; at right -- symbols of American state and cornucopia; legend above: "AMERICAN INSTITUTE"; inscription in exergue: "NEW YORK." Reverse has space for engraving at center, surrounded by laurel wreath, with legend: "AWARDED TO" and engraved inscription: "John Rogers/for the best/Groups of Statuary/1876."

ClassificationsMEDALS