Bronze Figure Of Ezra Cornell

Ezra Cornell, American (1807-1874), mid 20th Century, Hermon Atkins MacNeil, N.A. (1866-1947) (after), Bronze mounted on granite plinth. Measurements: 14" high, overall; 12" high, sculpture; 7.50" x 8" x 1-1/2", plinth Founding father of Cornell University, Ithaca, New York. A miniature version of the full-scale outdoor sculpture in the Arts Quad on the campus of Cornell University, executed by MacNeil and unveiled in 1919 by Mary Cornell, the Founders' daughter. The personage of Cornell, imposing w/ intense gaze and flowing beard stands w/ hat & walking stick in right hand. His left, resting on a book atop a pedestal.

Behind him a telegraph, in a nod to his early days as founder of Western Electric, a key builder of the American telegraph network, and where Cornell amassed the considerable fortune which later became the foundation of his philanthropic endeavors, among them, Cornell University. Cornell also served as a Senator in the New York State House. A placard affixed to the plinth & inscribed "EZRA CORNELL IN TRIBUTE TO IRVING H. SHERMAN." Condition: Excellent w/ nicely patinated highlights.