Sean Singh
Professor Stevenson
Art 164
The Legion of Honor
Overall, the experience I had at the museum was very enjoyable and it taught me
many lessons I never knew before about art. Over the years art has evolved and
develop as artists find new techniques of showcasing their art . There were many more
people at the museum that I thought were going to be there, so that was the first initial
sign that told me that I was in for a real treat. As we entered, we were greeted by “The
Thinker” which Rodin created and a spectacular glass pyramid the front of the structure.
Through studying the methods artists used in displaying their works of art from different
periods, we can help to identify how art progresses. The Legion of Honor had various
artworks including drawings, sculptures and other works crafted by artists. New age
artists from the 21st century can use technology to create cognitive artworks. It is
obvious that the art remains to obtain refined products which can be used as tools for
the further development of art. Cosimo I de’ Medici’s Torso of Hermes and Portrait Bust
signify development and sophistication. The design with the outlines are much smoother
and are much more functionally portrayed in clarity.
The Hermes Torso was made by the Romans around the second century. The
work of art is composed of marble is 38” in length. The model portrays the concept of
what it looked like to be considered a man in the second century. It has basic
geometrical shapes, including columns, as well. The massive design uses a single white
hue, which enables each element to separate itself when exposed by light. The work is
uneven, because both of the sides of the figure are not aligned. The chest of marble has
a rugged and unpleasant appearance with blunt, clear and strong lines that reflect
masculine characteristics. The artworks was very grand in stature to show how the
sculptor is strongly influenced by the human being portrayed. This grand piece of art is
viewed by others as what the dominance of men means to society. It was somewhat
ignored by the many visitors at The Legion of Honor, and I think that this sculpture is
very distinctive in its own way because it is not perfect intentionally.
The Tribute Money is a renaissance art piece of art that is 56 inches high. The oil
on pan was made by Peter Paul Rubens. A sleek and gentle feel is created by the
application of subtle colors. The brightness of light on the eyes produces glare that
