Moses Ezekiel: Civil War Soldier, Renowned Sculptor

Few artists if the 19th century were as well-known during their lifetime as was Moses Ezekiel. The first Jewish cadet at the Virginia Military Institute, he fought in the battle of New Market in 1864. Encouraged by General R.E. Lee to pursue his artistic calling, Ezekiel studied in Europe and became the first American to win the coveted Prix de Rome. The ex-patriate Virginian established his studio in the ancient Baths od Diocletian in Rome. Three European monarchs knighted Ezekiel for his works; he was a favorite among artists, composers and fellow ex-patriates. Visiting Ezekiel s studio was a must-see stop for American tourists­­­­, including Ulysses S. Grant and Theodore Roosevelt. ­