Object Details
Created by
Charles Henry Alston, American, 1907 - 1977
Subject of
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., American, 1929 - 1968
Caption
In 1970 Rev. Donald Harrington commissioned the bronze bust Reverend Martin Luther King for the Community Church of New York Unitarian Universalist. Charles Alston created multiple versions of his King busts, one of which became the first likeness of an African American to be exhibited in the White House.
Description
This is a bronze cast portrait of Reverend Martin Luther King, Jr. on a black marble base. The sculpture depicts Dr. King from the neck up. Chin raised, brow furrowed, his gaze is directed upwards. The bust rests on a square of dark marble. The artist's signature "Alston" is on the back of the right side of the neck.
Credit Line
Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Eric and Cheryl McKissack
Date
1970
Object number
2015.160
Restrictions & Rights
© Charles Alston Estate
Permission required for use. Proper usage is the responsibility of the user.
Type
bronzes
sculpture
portraits
Medium
bronze on marble mount
Dimensions
H x W x D: 17 × 7 1/2 × 10 1/2 in. (43.2 × 19.1 × 26.7 cm)
See more items in
National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
Classification
Visual Arts
Data Source
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Topic
African American
Art
Civil Rights
Men
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmaahc_2015.160