Col. Robert Gould Shaw (1837-1863)

Horace R. Burdick

Created:

Movement:

unknown

None

key Notes:

Heroic leadership, Civil War commemoration.

Dimensions:

medium:

Oil on canvas

Difficulty:

Intermediate

New game

story of the work:

"Col. Robert Gould Shaw (1837-1863)" by Horace R. Burdick is a portrait that commemorates the life and legacy of Colonel Shaw, who led the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, one of the first African American units in the Civil War. The painting serves as a tribute to Shaw's leadership and sacrifice, particularly during the assault on Fort Wagner in 1863, and reflects the broader themes of valor and the fight for emancipation during this pivotal period in American history.

Description of the work:

"Col. Robert Gould Shaw (1837-1863)" by Horace R. Burdick is a portrait that captures the figure of Colonel Shaw in a dignified pose, adorned in a military uniform indicative of his rank during the American Civil War. The composition employs a muted color palette, emphasizing the somber yet heroic nature of Shaw's legacy, while the background remains understated, directing focus to the subject's expression and attire.

Artwork Photograph Source:

Harvard Art Museum

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