Bust of John Locke

Unknown

1765–75 · Mahogany · The American Wing

The placement of busts of learned men in libraries is a tradition that dates from antiquity and proliferated in eighteenth-century Philadelphia. The likeness of the English philosopher John Locke (1632–1704) was a preferred subject that often ornamented the pediment tops of desks and bookcases. This example has a distinct naturalism in the sculpting of the philosopher’s features that may have been inspired by well-known prints. Americans esteemed Locke for his philosophies that endorsed individual conscience, religious tolerance, and the defense of democracy. Locke’s theories were fundamental to the thinking of American Revolutionaries, especially the authors of the Declaration of Independence.

Artist

Unknown

Date

1765–75

Medium

Mahogany

Culture

American

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

Gift of Bernard and S. Dean Levy Inc., New York City, in honor of Bernard Levy, 1992