David Rittenhouse (1732-1796)
Post American Revolution, the United States was determined to exercise the minds of their best and brightest individuals. American scientists were not limited in their creative power, much as what European philosophers had previously been as a result of religious authourity. The country was a free nation, which meant freedom from religion and freedom to think, freedom to explore, even without the luxury of all of the best and newest tools created by the Europeans. A 1792 coin that was to be put into circulation (ultimately deemed too heavy, however), inscribed the words "Parent of Science and Indust: Liberty". This reflected the nation's idea that it was determined to be the leader of science and industry.
Of this fascinating time in American History came the brilliant David Rittenhouse. He was an American astronomer who was often compared to the the likes of the revered European philosopher, Isaac Newton. Rittenhouse served as President of the American Philosophical Society, succeeding the successful Benjamin Franklin, and would later be succeeded by American President Thomas Jefferson. Rittenhouse's clothing depicted in two of his paintings seen in the exhibition mirror a similar banyan that Franklin himself wore in a portait. This particular painting is believed to have been completed postmortem in memory of Rittenhouse and it is suggested that this represents the connection of the brilliant minds of the gentlemen.
The telescope depicted in the portrait signifies the important work Rittenhouse did in terms of building his own telescopes, and probably as to his inclination towards astronomy. His papers and maps laid before him in the picture are more than likely the representation of his zeal for comets, and/or a diagram of the solar system he so loved to study.
David Rittenhouse appears to have been the poster child for American scientific studies. He proved that a college education was not necessary to become successful or well respected in the eyes of the scientific community at that time. After all, America was not concerned with formal education as much as it was concerned with its passion for paving the way to achievements they could call their own.
I like the picture you chose. Rittenhouse was a classic example of success without the means to do so as far as education. I think this allowed him to think outside the box so to speak. Great post!
ReplyDeleteRoman
I like your depth of background, and the explanation of science in America vs other countries.
ReplyDeleteBlake
I think you make some great points. At the time it wasn't important to have a college degree partly because the widely known and Ivy League schools were not yet as established as they are today. The coin is interesting, a link between science and liberty. I kind of cringed a bit when you mentioned this was painted postmortem but I have heard that before, families wanted a keepsake after their loved one dies. Sort of a sweet yet creeping sentiment.
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