Chesterwood, Sculptor estate in Stockbridge, United States
Chesterwood is a sculptor's estate in Stockbridge spanning more than 100 acres of farmland and forest, with a residence, working studio, formal gardens, and outdoor sculptures throughout the grounds. Paths connect the different areas, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace.
Daniel Chester French acquired the property in 1896 as a summer residence and creative workspace. He developed major sculptural designs here, including the Lincoln Memorial statue that was later installed in Washington DC.
The studio displays the sculptor's original tools and work materials, showing how he approached his craft on a daily basis. The space was designed to maximize natural light, making it easier to examine finished pieces as they took shape.
The property opens from May through October, with guided tours available for the residence, studio, and gardens between 10 AM and 5 PM. The paths on the grounds are easy to walk, and visitors can choose between structured tours or explore on their own.
The studio included an ingenious rail system on the floor that allowed large sculptures to be moved outside and assessed in natural daylight. This setup enabled the artist to view his works under realistic lighting conditions before they were shipped to their final destinations.
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