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The Spirit of Freedom
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library
The Spirit of Freedom
Image courtesy of the Barack Obama Presidential Library

The Spirit of Freedom

Artifact SeriesDomestic Gifts
Artifact IDDO.03212012-20-1.1.a
Object Type Sculpture
Artist (American, 1947)
Gifter
Intended Recipient (American, 1961)
Intended Recipient (American, 1964)
Date 2010
Medium metal (bronze), stone (granite), felt
DimensionsOverall H 10 1/4 in x Diam 6 7/8 in x Wt 25 lb (26 cm x 11.3 kg x 17.5 cm )
 Other (Base) H 2 1/4 in x Diam 6 7/8 in (5.7 cm x 17.5 cm )
Physical DescriptionMiniature bronze replica of the African American Civil War Memorial in Washington, D.C. The work depicts three infantrymen clutching rifles.The figures emerge from the curved wall with an African-American sailor holding a ship's wheel to the right. Above the group is relief of an angelic creature with flowing hair and arms crossed, a personification of the "Spirit of Freedom." The reverse of the sculpture features a woman with a baby, two children, and an older couple reaching out to hold the hands of an African-American soldier with his rifle resting before him. The sculpture is mounted on a dark stone base with a felted bottom.
Custodial History / ProvenanceThe item was a gift from a member of the general public to President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama during the Obama Administration. It was received through the Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives in January 2017 for deposit with the Obama Presidential Library. Additional Details
National Archives Catalog CollectionBarack Obama Artifact Collection (National Archives Identifier 63542091)
National Archives Catalog SeriesDomestic Gifts (National Archives Identifier 66540613)
Use Restriction StatusRestricted - Possibly
Use Restriction NoteCopyright or other proprietary rights may be held by individuals or entities other than the Obama Presidential Library. The Obama Presidential Library does not warrant that the use of materials will not infringe on the rights of third parties holding the rights to these works, or make any representations or warranties with respect to the application or terms of any international agreement, treaty, or protections that may apply. It is your responsibility to determine and satisfy any copyright or other use restrictions. Pertinent regulations can be found at 36 C.F.R 1254.62.
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