Gertrude Stein’s bronze statue in Bryant Park stands as a lasting tribute to her remarkable influence on American and European literature and art. Located near the iconic New York Public Library in Manhattan, this statue reflects her deep connection to creativity, innovation, and the written word. Designed by sculptor Jo Davidson in 1923 and cast in bronze in 1992, the piece honors her legacy as a bold writer, a dedicated arts patron, and an intellectual icon of the 20th century.
Early Life of Gertrude Stein
Birthplace and Background: Gertrude Stein was born in Allegheny, Pennsylvania, in 1874. She came from a family of German-Jewish immigrants.
Family Wealth and Relocation: Her father, Daniel Stein, became wealthy through street railroads and real estate. The family moved frequently, living in Vienna, Paris, and eventually Oakland, California.
Education Journey: Stein studied psychology at Radcliffe College, where she worked with renowned philosopher William James. She conducted lab experiments with psychologist Hugo Munsterberg. She also pursued medical studies at Johns Hopkins University, though she did not complete her degree.
Educational Timeline of Gertrude Stein
Institution
Field of Study
Notable Mentors
Outcome
Radcliffe College
Psychology
William James
Completed undergraduate studies
Harvard Psychological Lab
Psychology Research
Hugo Munsterberg
Conducted experiments
Johns Hopkins University
Medicine
—
Left before completing degree
Life in Paris and Cultural Influence
Move to Paris: In 1903, Stein moved to Paris with her brother Leo Stein. Their home became a gathering place for avant-garde artists and thinkers.
Friendships with Artists: Stein became friends with Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and Ernest Hemingway. She was an early supporter of cubist art and modernist literature.
Role as a Patron: Stein not only supported but also mentored emerging artists and writers. Her gatherings, often referred to as a “salon”, became essential hubs for artistic innovation.
Gertrude Stein’s Literary Works
Wide-Ranging Contributions: Stein’s writing covered plays, poetry, novels, essays, and lectures. She is known for her experimental style, often focusing on rhythm and repetition.
Notable Works
Three Lives (1909) – her first published book
Tender Buttons (1914) – a famous modernist text
The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas (1933) – a bestseller and semi-fictional memoir
Style and Impact: Her writing often challenged traditional narrative forms and used stream-of-consciousness techniques.
Selected Literary Contributions
Title
Genre
Year Published
Significance
Three Lives
Novel
1909
Early exploration of modernist themes
Tender Buttons
Poetry/Prose
1914
Known for abstract and symbolic language
The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas
Memoir/Novel
1933
Commercial success; introduced Stein widely
The Sculpture by Jo Davidson
Creation and Artist: The original model for the statue was created by Jo Davidson in Paris in 1923. Davidson, known for realistic and expressive sculptures, had a close professional relationship with Stein.
Bronze Casting and Installation: The final bronze version was cast and installed in Bryant Park, New York, in 1992. It is one of five sculptures in the park and uniquely features a seated Stein, hands folded, eyes engaged.
Statue’s Purpose: According to the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, the statue honors her “significant literary contributions.” Its placement near the New York Public Library reflects her bond with the literary world.
Details of the Statue
Aspect
Details
Sculptor
Jo Davidson
Year of Original Model
1923 (Paris)
Year of Installation
1992 (New York)
Location
Bryant Park, Manhattan
Material
Bronze
Style
Realistic, seated figure
Nearby Landmark
New York Public Library Main Branch
Purpose
Celebrates literary achievements
Gertrude Stein’s Legacy
Influence on Literature: Stein reshaped modern writing through her experimental prose and support of avant-garde movements.
Mentorship and Community: She nurtured a global network of artists, helping to foster creativity during times of rapid change.
Cultural Symbol: As a Jewish woman, an LGBTQ+ figure, and a pioneer in literature, she became a symbol of resilience and transformation.
Recognition and Memory: Her statue in Bryant Park is not just a visual tribute but a reminder of the power of literature to influence society.
Unique Aspects of the Bryant Park Statue
Not a Traditional Pose: Unlike many statues that depict leaders or warriors standing, this one presents Stein sitting peacefully, reflecting thoughtfulness.
Presence in the Park: Among the five statues in Bryant Park, Stein’s is the only one dedicated to a woman, emphasizing her trailblazing role.
Civic and Cultural Integration: The sculpture bridges public art and public memory, blending culture, history, and location.
Last Words
Gertrude Stein’s bronze statue in Bryant Park captures not only the physical form of a literary genius but also her intellectual weight and historical importance. As visitors pass by her seated likeness near the New York Public Library, they are quietly invited to remember a woman who dared to redefine art and language. Her life, filled with learning, mentorship, and creativity, continues to inspire generations through this artistic tribute in the heart of New York City.
