Commemorating the Hudson-Fulton Celbration, 1909

About this artwork

This exquisite gilt bronze medal, crafted by French artist Jules Edouard Roiné 1909, commemorates the grand Hudson-Fulton Celebration held that year in New York. just 5/8 inch (16 mm) in diameter, it exemplifies the intricate art of medals and plaquettes—tiny, sculptural masterpieces prized for their detailed relief work and portability. Donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in1910 by Thomas L Elder, it now resides in the European Sculpture and Decorative Arts department, highlighting Roiné's skill in capturing historical moments with elegant precision. The Hudson-Fulton Celebration marked the 300th anniversary of explorer Henry Hudson's voyage up the river that bears his name and the 100th anniversary of Robert Fulton's steamboat *Clermont*. Festivities included naval parades, fireworks, and replicas of historic ships, drawing massive crowds. Roiné's medal likely features portraits of these pivotal men alongside ships, blending portraiture with maritime motifs in a compact, symbolic tribute that bridged French artistry with American history. As a product of the early 20th-century medal renaissance, influenced by Art Nouveau's flowing lines, this piece showcases gilt bronze's luminous finish and fine chasing techniques, making it both a collector's gem and a window into transatlantic cultural exchange. Visitors will appreciate its delicate scale—perfect for a pocket or display case—evoking the era's enthusiasm for progress and exploration.