Sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi was commissioned to design a sculpture with the year 1876 in mind for completion, to commemorate the centennial of the American Declaration of Independence.

In the building of the statue, Bartholdi required the assistance of an engineer to address structural issues associated with designing such as colossal copper sculpture. Alexandre Gustave Eiffel (designer of the Eiffel Tower) was commissioned to design the massive iron pylon and secondary skeletal framework which allows the Statue's copper skin to move independently yet stand upright.

On a rainy October 28, 1886, the 305 foot Statue was unveiled to over 1 million people who were enthralled by the site. As the construction took shape, many of the early non-supporters were converted by the majesty of the Statue of Liberty and lined up for the ceremonies.

Medium : 1 print

Created/Published : August 21, c1885

Housed in the Prints and Photographs Division of the Library of Congress

Availability: Special order: ships in 3-4 weeks

Product #: bedloeisland