Susan B. Anthony Museum wins grant to conserve iconic statuette

Justice Marbury, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
·2 min read
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The National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House has been awarded a Bank of America Art Conservation Project grant. The grant will support the conservation of a seated Susan B. Anthony plaster statuette by the late Bessie Potter Vonnoh.

Bessie Potter Vonnoh attended the Art Institute of Chicago and became one of the most recognized artists of her time. Her works are in many major museums throughout the United States.

As documented in her biography and diary, Susan B. Anthony confirmed that she sat for the artist to create the figurine in the 1890s.

In memory of Grace D. Anthony, great niece to Susan B. Anthony, Mark, and Patty Weidner recently donated the plaster statuette to the Anthony Museum. The Weidners inherited the statuette, which used to sit on Grace’s desk.

The conservation project is one of a select group of 24 Art Conservation Projects announced this year by Bank of America–projects representing a diverse range of artistic styles, media, and cultural traditions in 11 countries.

“Susan B. Anthony’s remarkable life and achievements are a key part of Rochester’s history and the legacy of civil rights and women’s suffrage in the United States,” Colleen Matteson, president of Bank of America Rochester, said. “Cultural institutions like the National Susan B. Anthony Museum & House are integral to building understanding in our local communities and beyond. We are thrilled that Bank of America’s Art Conservation Project will help support the restoration of Bessie Potter Vonnoh’s statue and allow museumgoers to experience this artifact from a crucial period in our history.”

The West Lake Art Conservation Center will complete the Susan B. Anthony plaster statuette conservation. The project will address areas of detached plaster all around the figure, especially in the neck, upper back, and base.

Justice Marbury is the 19th Ward Reporter. She loves her energetic puppy, Hiro. Contact her on Instagram @justice_marbury and by email at jmarbury@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Susan B. Anthony Museum wins grant to conserve iconic statuette