Choosing of the Arrow

William Henry Brown, 1849

MEDIUMBronze
DIMENSIONS22 x 11 3/8 x 5 5/8 in. (55.9 x 28.9 x 14.3 cm)
LOCATIONThe Metropolitan Museum of Art
COLLECTIONThe American Wing
CULTUREAmerican
CREDIT LINEPurchase, Mia R. Taradash and Dorothy Schwartz Gifts, and Morris K. Jesup and Rogers Funds, 2005

This striking bronze sculpture captures a powerful moment of decision, as a classical figure carefully selects an arrow. It's a compelling blend of idealized form and quiet contemplation.

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ABOUT THIS WORK

A lone figure, nude and poised, stands with a bow, carefully selecting an arrow from a quiver. This bronze sculpture, titled "Choosing of the Arrow," captures a moment of quiet contemplation and preparation. The artist, William Henry Brown, has rendered the man with a classical idealization, his musculature finely detailed, suggesting strength and grace. The pose, with the head slightly tilted and eyes downcast, conveys a sense of intense focus on the task at hand, hinting at the importance of the choice being made. Created in 1849, the work reflects a mid-19th-century interest in allegorical or mythological subjects, often presented through idealized human forms. The bronze medium lends a timeless quality to the figure, emphasizing the universal nature of decision and readiness.

LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

1

The subtle tilt of the head, indicating deep concentration.

2

The quiver, holding several arrows, from which one is being chosen.

3

The finely sculpted muscles of the back and legs.

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Audio Deep Dive

This striking bronze sculpture captures a powerful moment of decision, as a classical figure carefully selects an arrow. It's a compelling blend of idealized f…

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THE ARTIST
William Henry Brown 1815–1875

William Henry Brown, known for his silhouette portraits and early photographic experiments, captured the likenesses of figures like John Quincy Adams.

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