Marshall Fredricks

Marshall Maynard Fredericks

Born 1908, Rock Island, IL

Died 1998, Birmingham, MI

 

One of the most prolific sculptors of the twentieth century, Marshall Fredericks had more than 500 commissions for sculpture.  Although elements reminiscent of his mentor, Carl Milles, are present in his work, Fredericks’ style is individual.  Much of his work is large scale, designed specifically for outdoor settings – civic monuments, fountains, and architectural uses.  In this work, a sleek gazelle is presented in a characteristic movement known as wheeling.  The sculpture was adapted from the central figure of the Levi L. Barbour Memorial Fountain by Fredericks, located on Belle Isle in the Detroit River.  In 1936, this design won first place in a national competition.  In 1972, it won the purchase prize in a competition sponsored by Brookgreen Gardens.  Placed around the fountain basin are Hawk, Rabbit, Grouse and Otter, each representing animals native to the region.  These figures were added in 1974 (S.1974.003-006).

 

Gazelle

Bronze, 1936

88 x 20½ x 8¼ in.

Signed: MARSHALL . M . FREDERICKS . N . A .

Founder’s mark: BEDI-MAKKY ART FOUNDRY, N.Y.

S.1972.013