Liberty Enlightening the World (The Statue of Liberty)
Colossal copper sculpture and monument • Frédéric-Auguste Bartholdi (sculptor); Gustave Eiffel (internal structural engineer); Richard Morris Hunt (pedestal architect)
Style & Movement
Neoclassical
Medium & Technique
Hammered copper sheets (repoussè technique) over an iron pylon and steel skeletal frame; pedestal made of concrete with granite facing
Creation Period
1875-1884 (Dedicated October 28, 1886)
Dimensions & Format
Height of copper statue: 151 feet 1 inch (46 meters); Ground to torch: 305 feet 1 inch (93 meters). Vertical colossal format.
Subject Description
A robed female figure representing Libertas, the Roman goddess of liberty. She holds a torch above her head with her right hand, and in her left hand carries a tabula ansata inscribed JULY IV MDCCLXXVI (July 4, 1776). A broken shackle and chain lie at her feet, symbolizing the abolition of slavery and freedom from oppression.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The structural integrity is maintained through major restoration in the 1980s. The surface shows a stable green verdigris patina.
Estimated Market Value
Inestimable. As a National Monument and UNESCO World Heritage site, it is a non-marketable sovereign asset.
Auction Estimate
Not applicable/Priceless
Provenance History
A gift from the people of France to the people of the United States. It has been under the jurisdiction of the Lighthouse Board, the Department of War, and currently the National Park Service since 1933.
Art Historical Significance
One of the most recognizable icons of freedom and democracy worldwide. It represents the alliance between France and the US and served as a beacon for millions of immigrants arriving at Ellis Island. It is a masterpiece of 19th-century engineering.
Notable Features
The seven rays of the crown represent the seven seas and continents; the use of repoussè allowed for a massive scale with relatively light weight (200 tons total).
Condition Issues
Historical corrosion of the iron armature led to a total replacement with stainless steel in 1986. The original torch was replaced due to water damage. Current issues involve minor atmospheric oxidation and salt-air weathering.
Conservation Recommendations
Continuous monitoring of the copper skin for pitting, regular maintenance of the internal climate control system to prevent condensation, and periodic inspection of the stainless steel armature.