The Spirit of Life facts for kids
Quick facts for kids The Spirit of Life |
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| Artist | Daniel Chester French |
| Year | 1914 |
| Type | Bronze |
| Location | Saratoga Springs, NY (smaller castings elsewhere) |
The Spirit of Life is a beautiful bronze statue created in 1914 by the American artist Daniel Chester French. This famous sculpture is located in Saratoga Springs, New York, and it represents health and new beginnings.
Contents
About the Sculpture's Creation
The idea for The Spirit of Life started as a special request to honor Spencer Trask (1844–1909). Trask was a wealthy businessman who loved spending his summers in Saratoga Springs, New York. He helped make the city well-known as a place for health and wellness.
Who Commissioned the Statue?
Spencer Trask's friend, George Foster Peabody, asked Daniel Chester French to create this important statue. French was a very famous sculptor, known for his work on the Lincoln Memorial.
Designing the Setting
Henry Bacon, who also worked with French on the Lincoln Memorial, designed the beautiful area where the statue stands. This special design helps the sculpture look even more impressive.
The Models for the Statue
Two different models helped French create The Spirit of Life. The main figure was modeled by Audrey Munson. The hands of the winged woman were modeled by Hettie Anderson.
What the Statue Looks Like
The statue stands in the middle of Congress Park in Saratoga Springs, New York. It is placed in a shallow area made of white marble, with a lovely pool of water below it. Green plants, soft lawns, and many flowers surround the area.
The Figure of Hygieia
The main part of the statue is a winged woman. Her hands are raised high above her head. This figure represents Hygieia, who was known as the giver of health in ancient Greek and Roman stories. Hygieia often appeared with her father, Asklepios, the god of medicine.
Symbols in the Sculpture
In French's design, Hygieia holds a shallow bowl in one hand. In her other hand, she holds a pine branch. This pine branch reminds people of the tall pine trees that grew on Spencer Trask's estate. The goddess stands lightly on a rock, and water flows from a crack in the rock. The base of the statue looks like the natural rock formations found around Saratoga's famous springs.
The Statue's Message
An important message is carved into the statue: "To do good and serve my fellow man." This message reflects the spirit of Spencer Trask and the purpose of the memorial.
Movement and Copies of the Statue
The Spirit of Life is known as one of Daniel Chester French's most "active" statues. The way the angel's robe flows and the position of her right foot make the statue look like it is moving.
Smaller Versions of the Statue
Daniel Chester French approved several smaller copies of the statue. Six of these smaller versions were made between 1923 and 1931.
Historical Importance
This sculpture is considered a very important part of the National Historic Landmark District that includes Congress Park and the Canfield Casino. It helps tell the story of the area's history.
See also
- Daniel Chester French
- Lincoln Memorial
- Saratoga Springs, New York
- Congress Park
