A conversation about “People of Progress”

Listen as Secretary Bunch and Richard Kurin offer an update on a classic painting and explain why “Men of Progress” is an anachronism

In the collections of the National Portrait Gallery is “Men of Progress,” by Christian Schussele, a group portrait of 19 American scientists and inventors described by the artist as those who “had altered the course of contemporary civilization.” The painting documents the incredible growth of the American economy in the mid-nineteenth century through the inventions and manufacturing processes pioneered by men, including Joseph Henry, the Smithsonian’s first Secretary. However, in choosing these 19 white men, Schussele overlooked the equally critical contributions of many other Americans.

To help mark the Smithsonian’s 175th anniversary, Kim Sajet, the director of the National Portrait Gallery, invited me and Richard Kurin, Smithsonian Distinguished Scholar, to “give the painting an update” on NPG’s podcast Portraits: People of Progress.  I welcome you to listen into our conversation, and I thank Kim and the team at the Portrait Gallery for the opportunity to apply our collections in ways we can that advance our understanding of today’s world.   

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