Edmonia Lewis: A Retrospective at the Peabody Essex Museum

The Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, Massachusetts, is currently hosting a major retrospective titled “Edmonia Lewis: Said in Stone,” which showcases the works of the renowned sculptor Edmonia Lewis (1844-1907). This exhibition features 30 sculptures, marking the largest collection of her work ever assembled. Lewis, who gained international fame during her lifetime, is celebrated for her political memorabilia and her ability to fuse neoclassical artistry with contemporary social issues, including emancipation and Indigenous sovereignty.

New York Observer

Edmonia Lewis began her artistic journey in Boston in 1863, encouraged by abolitionist Frederick Douglass. She initially carved small, wearable portrait medallions of notable figures such as John Brown and Robert Gould Shaw. Her success led her to Rome, where she collaborated with expatriate female sculptors to create larger marble works. Among the notable pieces in the exhibition is "Hagar" (1875), a four-foot-tall marble sculpture that reflects themes of empathy and resilience. The figure of Hagar, who was cast into the wilderness with her son Ishmael, embodies the struggles faced by former slaves in America, capturing a moment of dignity amidst adversity.

New York Observer

Another significant work, "Portrait Bust of a Contadina" (1872), portrays an Italian peasant, showcasing Lewis's ability to transition from religious and mythological subjects to the representation of everyday workers. This shift highlights her commitment to addressing contemporary social issues through her art.

New York Observer

The exhibition delves into the political dimensions of Lewis's work. For instance, "The Clasped Hands of Gerrit and Ann Smith" (1872) symbolizes the support and solidarity between the wealthy landowner Gerrit Smith, a supporter of radical causes, and his wife Ann, who remained by his side through personal challenges. This piece, like much of Lewis's work, serves as a commentary on the nature of honorable politics during tumultuous times.

New York Observer

“Said in Stone” is on view at the Peabody Essex Museum until June 7, 2026. The exhibition not only celebrates Lewis's artistic achievements but also invites viewers to reflect on the broader implications of her work in the context of social justice and political activism.

New York Observer

While the exhibition has been well-received, some critics argue that the focus on Lewis's political themes may overshadow her technical prowess as a sculptor. They suggest that a more balanced approach could enhance the appreciation of her artistic skills alongside her social commentary.

New York Observer

• “Like the rest of the exhibition, it’s an exploration of what honorable politics look like in bad times.” — Exhibition Review

New York Observer

• “Given Lewis’s abolitionist tendencies, you would like to read defiance into her posture, but really, Hagar is about the flavor of empathy.” — Exhibition Review

New York Observer

This retrospective not only highlights Edmonia Lewis's contributions to art but also emphasizes her role as a voice for social change, making it a significant event in the art world.

New York Observer