Brilliant limited edition bronze tablet made from metal salvaged from the U.S.S. Maine, a 2nd-class battleship of the US Navy that mysteriously exploded in Havana Harbor during the Cuban revolt against Spain, an event that cost the lives of 261 of the 355 crewmen on board. This handsome and heavy bronze tablet, 17.75 x 12.75, approximately 10.75 pounds, accomplished in the style of romantic naturalism by known sculptor Charles Keck in 1913, depicts a cloth-capped female figure in Grecian robes gazing upon an American shield with Bald Eagle atop the Great Seal and encircled with words “Patriotism” and “Devotion.” The figure’s right arm is raised in benediction over the sinking vessel, with raised text to upper and lower portions reading: “In Memoriam, USS Maine, Destroyed in Havana Harbor, February 15th, 1898, This Tablet Is Cast from Metal Recovered from the U.S.S. Maine.” Lower right corner bears a copyright engraving: “C. Keck Sc., 1913, Cast by Jno. Williams, Inc., N.Y.” Reverse of tablet features two hoops for hanging and is additionally engraved in upper left corner: “Tablet No. 91, Charles Keck, Sculptor, Cast by Jno. Williams, Inc., Bronze Foundry, New York, 1913.” In fine condition.
