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Paul Robeson

Paul Robeson
Usage Conditions Apply
Artist
Jacob Epstein, 10 Nov 1880 - 19 Aug 1959
Sitter
Paul Robeson, 9 Apr 1898 - 23 Jan 1976
Date
1928
Type
Sculpture
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
With Base: 46.4 x 22.9 x 30.5cm (18 1/4 x 9 x 12")
Without Base: 34.3 x 22.9 x 30.5cm (13 1/2 x 9 x 12")
Base: 22.9 x 19.7cm (9 x 7 3/4")
Topic
Paul Robeson: Male
Paul Robeson: Performing Arts\Performer\Actor\Stage actor
Paul Robeson: Performing Arts\Performer\Musician\Singer
Paul Robeson: Society and Social Change\Reformer\Activist\Civil rights activist
Paul Robeson: Performing Arts\Performer\Actor\Movie actor
Portrait
Credit Line
National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
Copyright
© Estate of Jacob Epstein
Object number
NPG.75.18
Exhibition Label
Born Princeton, New Jersey
A celebrated dramatic actor and concert artist, Paul Robeson was also a strong voice in the struggle for racial equality. Encouraged by the professional opportunities and broader acceptance afforded him in Europe, he spent much of his early career performing abroad. When he returned to the United States, he spoke out forcefully against the injustices he encountered. His conviction that socialism could produce a more just society put him at odds with a rising tide of conservatism in post-World War II America. Cast as “un-American,” Robeson was effectively blacklisted for the remainder of his life.
Nacido en Princeton, Nueva Jersey
El célebre actor dramático y cantante Paul Robeson fue también una voz resonante en la lucha por la igualdad racial. Animado por las oportunidades profesionales y la mayor aceptación que le ofrecía Europa, pasó gran parte de su carrera artística temprana en el extranjero. Cuando regresó a Estados Unidos denunció firmemente las injusticias que encontró. Su convicción de que el socialismo podía producir una sociedad más justa lo puso en conflicto con una creciente ola de conservadurismo en el país después de la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Tildado de “antiamericano”, Robeson quedó en lista negra del gobierno por el resto de sus días.
Provenance
(Roland, Browse & Delbanco), London; purchased NPG 1975
Data Source
National Portrait Gallery
Location
Currently not on view