Collection Highlights
The Bulls and Bears in the Market
1879
1971.104
Oil on linen
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Museum Collections
Luce Center
Wooden leg of Gouverneur Morris
Object name
Wooden leg of Gouverneur Morris
Date
ca. 1780
Medium
Oak, leather, metal
Dimensions
Overall: 42 1/2 x 14 1/2 in. ( 108 x 36.8 cm )
Description
Turned and carved oak prosthetic leg made in two sections; lower section tapers downward and has knob at base; upper section attached with metal ring and screws and forms U-shape with one side twice as long as the other; center of U lined with green leather; short side has slots for tie to secure leg; mounted on circular wooden base with metal rods.
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Frederick Menzies
Object Number
1954.148
Gallery Label
This artifical limb was used by Founding Father Gouverneur Morris (1752-1816), who lost his left leg in a carriage accident at the age of twenty-eight. The gallant statesman was notorious for his many affairs, and rumors persisted that his injury resulted from jumping out a window to escape a jealous husband.
Due to ongoing research, information about this object is subject to change.
