Exceptional late 19th-century American folk art carving of Abraham Lincoln, circa 1887–1900. Carved in the round from a single block of wood and standing approximately 20 inches tall, this remarkable sculpture presents Lincoln as a thoughtful and deeply human figure.
The carving displays an impressive level of artistic confidence and technical refinement, with a remarkably faithful likeness defined by Lincoln’s high forehead, deeply set eyes, prominent nose, gaunt cheeks, and distinctive chin curtain beard. His long, lean proportions are rendered with notable accuracy, reflecting the President’s characteristic stature.
Particularly impressive is the attention given to his clothing, including deeply undercut lapels, individually carved buttons, natural folds in the waistcoat, carefully modeled hands, and finely shaped boots. The sculpture is fully carved on all sides, with the reverse featuring modeled shoulders, clasped hands, and carefully carved coat tails, demonstrating that it was intended to be appreciated as a complete sculpture in the round.
A striking example of American vernacular folk art and post-Civil War patriotic sculpture, this Lincoln carving combines historical significance, exceptional craftsmanship, and strong visual presence.