Matthew Fontaine Maury on Monument Avenue


Statue of Matthew Fontaine Maury on Monument Avenue in Richmond, VirginiaWHAT: Statue of Matthew Fontaine Maury on Monument Avenue in Richmond, Virginia.

WHERE: Monument and Belmont avenues in the intersection.

ARTIST: William F. Sievers

DEDICATION: November 11, 1929

A seated bronze figure of Matthew Fontaine Maury which is 8 foot high on a 5 foot high granite pedestalDESCRIPTION: A seated bronze figure of Maury which is 8 foot high on a 5 foot high granite pedestal. This grouping sits in front of a 18 foot high base which supports a 9 foot diameter bronze globe. At the base of the globe a storm is raging with figures being tossed by a swirling wave. This carefully conceived allegorical theme is a tribute to Maury’s study of the ocean, winds and currents.

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Confederate naval officer and explorer Matthew Fontaine Maury was known as the “Pathfinder of the Seas.” Although he never fought a battle and was prone to seasickness, Maury became one of the U.S. Navy’s most accomplished officers.

The carefully conceived allegorical theme is a tribute to Maury’s study of the ocean, winds and currentsThe enigmatic nature of his statue reflects his unusual place in the pantheon of Confederate and Virginia heroes. The carefully conceived allegorical theme is a tribute to Maury’s study of the ocean, winds and currents. It was dedicated November 11, 1929, and rests in the intersection with Belmont Avenue. Maury’s grave can be found in President’s Circle at Hollywood Cemetery.

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One response to this post.

  1. After I initially left a comment I seem to have clicked the -Notify me when new comments are added- checkbox and
    now each time a comment is added I get 4 emails with the exact same comment.
    Perhaps there is a means you are able to remove me from that service?

    Kudos!

    Reply

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