Descending Night by Adolph Weinman Bronze Angel 27" x 18"

"Descending Night" is a remarkable bronze sculpture by Adolph A. Weinman, created around 1915. This piece depicts a graceful, nude female angel with expansive wings, her head gently lowered as she brushes her flowing hair. The sculpture embodies the transition from day to night, capturing the serene and contemplative essence of the evening. Originally designed for the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition in San Francisco, "Descending Night" was intended to adorn one of the fountains at the event. The monumental version stood atop a decorated column in the Court of the Universe, complementing its companion piece, "Rising Day." These sculptures were part of a series that showcased Weinman's skill in blending classical forms with modern sensibilities. Weinman, a German-born American sculptor, was renowned for his contributions to public monuments and coinage. His works, including "Descending Night," reflect his mastery in capturing the human form and conveying profound allegorical themes. The sculpture is currently part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection.