Gettysburg Sculptures

The group of seven bronze soldiers at the base of the Virginia Memorial is one of the most emotional filled on the field. Sievers included many remarkable details of the soldiers and their equipment.

 Unlike the North Carolina Monument, Sievers has sculpted the intricate aspects of a southern soldier and his equipment.

A rare photograph taken of the clay model in Sievers studio located in Richmond, Virginia c1914.

The blanket roll over the shoulder of a Civil War soldier was a common scene as was the sounds of the bugle call.

The equestrian on the front of the monument depicts a Virginian, holding the state flag of Virginia. Sievers originally had placed the "Stars and Bars" the emblem of the Confederacy on the flag but this met with great objection so the model was changed.

 An infantryman is in the process of using his teeth to tear the bottom from a paper cartridge. This cartridge contained powder and the bullet and when the end was torn the powder was poured into the barrel and then bullet squeezed into the bore. The bullet was then rammed down the barrel. 

A southern soldier draws a bead as he prepares to fire his revolver.

The hammer on the muzzle loading rifle is nearly perfect as it is cocked and ready to be fired.

The belt of this soldier is retained with a CS buckle. The CS stands for Confederate States. Note also the detail of the folds in the coat.

Sievers has captured the concerned look of a southern soldier about to enter battle. Virginia has honored her sons well.

A firm hand grasps the muzzel of a rifle.

Sievers has captured some of the simplest details such as this tied shoe string.

 A piece of broken spherical case shell rests at the foot of this soldier.