3-008-848 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The International Exhibition: figure in vulcanised indiarubber, by C. H. Meyer, 1862. 'Vulcanised indiarubber...although invented only a few years ago in America, has already been applied to numerous purposes, and promises to be still more serviceable in manufactures and the arts. This material may be cast or moulded, and used for any plastic purpose...vulcanised indiarubber is also a far better material for perpetuating, multiplying, and consequently diffusing and rendering attainable, the works of the sculptor than any hitherto used...This statue is contributed by Herr H. C. Meyer, jun., the proprietor of the extensive manufactories and warehouses at Hamburg...The modelling of the statue was intrusted to the Hanoverian sculptor, Herr Engelhard...The figure is intended to represent Hermann (the Arminius of the Roman historians), the son of Sigmier, the chief of Cherusci, one of the tribes of North Germany, after the victory gained over the Roman legions under Quintilius Varus...The head is surrounded with the victor's wreath, the foot rests on a Roman eagle, and the sword is being sheathed triumphantly...Hermann remained for twelve years the leader and champion of Germany, but he was subsequently defeated,...and killed by his own relations'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.