On this date in 1845, Mary Edmonia Lewis, also known as Wildfire Lewis, was born. She was a groundbreaking sculptor of African-American and Native American descent, known for her works that explored themes of identity, race, and history.
Edmonia Lewis gained fame in the 19th century for her marble sculptures, including notable pieces such as Forever Free and The Death of Cleopatra. She is considered one of the first African-American women to achieve recognition as a professional sculptor in the United States and abroad. Her work often combined neoclassical styles with elements of African-American and Native American culture, making her a significant figure in both art history and the fight for social justice.
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