Attilio Piccirilli was born on May 16, 1866, in the province of Massa-Carrara, Italy. From a young age, he showed a natural talent for sculpting, inspired by the beauty of his surroundings in the Italian countryside.
In 1888, at the age of 22, Attilio Piccirilli immigrated to the United States in search of new opportunities. He joined his father, who was already working as a sculptor in New York City, and began assisting him in his studio. It was in this bustling metropolis that Attilio honed his skills and developed his signature style.
As Attilio Piccirilli established himself as a talented sculptor, his work began to gain recognition. One of his most notable creations was the Mothers' War Memorial, completed in 1923 and now located in Richmond, Virginia. The memorial stands as a powerful tribute to the mothers who lost sons in the war, capturing the range of emotions they experienced.
Another iconic piece by Attilio Piccirilli is the Maine Memorial in Columbus Circle, New York City. This sculpture commemorates the sailors who perished when the USS Maine exploded in Havana Harbor in 1898, an event that played a significant role in the Spanish-American War.
Attilio Piccirilli's legacy as a sculptor lives on through his numerous works of art that adorn public spaces in New York City and Richmond. His attention to detail and ability to convey emotion through his sculptures continue to inspire and captivate audiences today.
One of Attilio Piccirilli's notable works is the Thomas Jefferson bust located in Richmond, Virginia. This sculpture pays homage to one of America's founding fathers, capturing his likeness with incredible precision.
Despite his international success, Attilio Piccirilli remained connected to his roots in Italy. His parents, who raised him in Massa-Carrara, instilled in him a love for art and culture that would shape his career as a sculptor.
Attilio Piccirilli continued to work on sculptural projects until his passing, leaving a lasting impact on the art world. He passed away on July 8, 1945, but his contributions to the field of sculpture continue to be celebrated and admired.
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