Errant bronzes

the long version

In this book, containing one hundred and seven illustrations, the author presents a closely studied history of three bronze statues of Abraham Lincoln that, with astonishing results, broke with the established iconic portrayal of the American hero. Consisting of a prototype and two replicas that were sculpted by George Grey Barnard, the images portray their subject not as a sagacious demigod but as a country lout. The book is also a partial history of Abraham Lincoln himself - an account of how his memory was appropriated by social and political contenders in their campaigns for dominance or survival.