Gazing at the Duck Girl, have you ever pondered her journey to Rittenhouse Square? This charming bronze statue, created by Paul Manship in 1911, has a fascinating history. The Duck Girl first charmed audiences at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts in 1914. There, she won the prestigious Widener Gold Medal. The Fairmount Park Art Association, now known as the Association for Public Art, acquired one of two casts. They placed her in Cloverly Park in 1916. Sadly, she suffered damage and was relegated to storage in 1956. Luckily, the Rittenhouse Square Improvement Association rescued her. The Duck Girl found her new home in Rittenhouse Square in 1960. She continues to captivate visitors in this bustling urban oasis. Dressed in a flowing Greek-style garment, the young girl clutches a duck. This classical imagery reflects Manship’s earlier artistic style. The Duck Girl stands as a testament to the enduring power of art and its ability to bring joy across generations. She invites us to pause and appreciate the simple beauty of a girl and her feathered friend, amidst the vibrant energy of city life.
Building 662
“Building 662, a sturdy brick structure, stands before you.” “It’s not a grand masterpiece, but a testament to practicality,” “Built