The Dock Hand
Constantin Emile Meunier
(Belgian, 1831–1905)
Modeled 1885, cast 1905
Object PlaceBelgium
Medium/TechniqueMetal; bronze
Dimensions117 x 46.4 x 45.7 cm (46 1/16 x 18 1/4 x 18 in.)
Credit LineHelen and Alice Colburn Fund
Accession number60.235
On View
On viewClassificationsSculpture
Collections
Originally a painter, Meunier began working in sculpture in 1885. Like the French painter Jean-François Millet, Meunier was particularly interested in depicting members of the working class and in addressing social issues of the day. This dock hand, identifiable by the jute sack that covers his head, is typical of Meunier's idealized images, which bring dignity and nobility to their humble subjects. The wax model for The Dock Hand was exhibited in Brussels in 1885, but the bronze casts were not made until the year of Meunier's death.
ProvenanceBy 1921, Johan Durup, West Newton, MA; by inheritance to his widow; 1960, sold by Helene (Mrs. Johan) Durup to the MFA for $1,700. (Accession Date: April 14, 1960)
Constantin Müller
Paul (Paulus) Constantin La Fargue
Auguste Constantin
Constantin Guys
