Souvenir: Ribbon badge for the "Unveiling of the Barnum Statue"
Part of BM-MSS 002 box 3
July 4 1893 (Date manufactured/created)
Paper Documentary Artifact
7.5 in H
X
2.5 in W
Printed silk ribbon badge created for the unveiling of the monumental statue of P.T. Barnum in Seaside Park, Bridgeport, Connecticut. The bronze sculpture of Barnum by Thomas Ball was installed on July 4, 1893, twenty-seven months after his death. This ribbon designated the wearer as a Guest at the event; several versions of the ribbon were made for the various officials and guests. The center of the cream color ribbon features an oval portrait of P.T. Barnum, probably a photograph taken in the 1880s. The photograph depicts Barnum in a pose and wearing attire that strongly resembles a plaster bust of Barnum made by Thomas Ball. The image is framed in green. The lower edge of the ribbon forms a self-fringe.
Barnum commissioned sculptor Thomas Ball to create the larger than life-size statue of himself, seated and holding a small book or notebook and pen. Ball was noted for his bronze sculptures of historical figures such as Daniel Webster, and George Washington. Ball was an American, but spent many years of his career working in Italy. The bronze sculpture of Barnum was made in the late 1880s and was then placed in storage, as Barnum did not wish to have it erected until after his death. Barnum died on April 7, 1891. His last home, Marina, was located in Seaside Park. The statue is sited so that Barnum appears to be looking out toward Long Island Sound.
Barnum commissioned sculptor Thomas Ball to create the larger than life-size statue of himself, seated and holding a small book or notebook and pen. Ball was noted for his bronze sculptures of historical figures such as Daniel Webster, and George Washington. Ball was an American, but spent many years of his career working in Italy. The bronze sculpture of Barnum was made in the late 1880s and was then placed in storage, as Barnum did not wish to have it erected until after his death. Barnum died on April 7, 1891. His last home, Marina, was located in Seaside Park. The statue is sited so that Barnum appears to be looking out toward Long Island Sound.
1989.040.011