Andrew Jackson

Hiram Powers

1834–35; carved 1839 · Marble · The American Wing

When Andrew Jackson (1767–1845) sat for Powers at the White House, he requested that the sculptor not idealize his aging facial features: "Make me as I am. . . . It’s the only safe rule to follow." This highly realistic portrait of a president with a controversial legacy reflects both of Jackson’s sobriquets: King Andrew, for his imperial style of governing, specifically his exploitation of Native American peoples, and Old Hickory, for his unbending strength and determination in the name of a populist political agenda. The bust was carved in marble in Florence, Italy, where Powers had settled permanently in 1837.

Artist

Hiram Powers

Date

1834–35; carved 1839

Medium

Marble

Culture

American

Department

The American Wing

Credit line

Gift of Mrs. Frances V. Nash, 1894