America in Miniature: American Medals from the Portland Art Museum's Hatfield and Wight Collections

2003

The exhibition explores both the commemorative and artistic aspects of these popular, portable artworks and how they reflect larger historical, political, and artistic issues. Medals are an important, though lesser-known, form of American sculpture made to celebrate presidents and other famous figures; to commemorate historical events; to be presented as symbols of peace and goodwill; to serve as souvenirs; or as virtuoso examples of miniature sculpture.