Harriet Goodhue Hosmer was the most celebrated American woman sculptor of the 19th century. At a time when women struggled and often failed to secure even a toehold in the art profession, Hosmer defied convention and pursued a successful international career on her own terms. Among latter-day feminists, Hosmer is a heroine.
Harriet Goodhue Hosmer (October 9, 1830 – February 21, 1908) was a neoclassical sculptor, considered the most distinguished female sculptor in America during the 19th century. She is known as the first female professional sculptor. Among other technical innovations, she pioneered a process for turning limestone into marble. Hosmer once lived in an expatriate colony in Rome, befriending many prominent writers and artists.
She was a cousin of poet William H. C. Hosmer and tragic actress Jean Hosmer.
