Anna Coleman Ladd

American sculptor known for her work with facial prosthetics for soldiers

Anna Coleman Ladd (July 15, 1878 – June 3, 1939) was an American sculptor renowned for her innovative work in creating facial prosthetics for soldiers who were disfigured during World War I. Her contributions to the field of anaplastology and her artistic achievements have left a lasting impact on both the medical and art communities.

Early Life and Education

Anna Coleman Watts was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on July 15, 1878. She was the daughter of John Watts and Mary Watts. Anna showed an early interest in the arts and pursued her education in sculpture at the Boston Museum School and later in Europe, where she studied in Paris under the tutelage of renowned sculptors.

Career as a Sculptor

Triton Babies in Boston Public Garden

Ladd began her career as a sculptor in Boston, where she became known for her classical style and attention to detail. One of her notable works includes the "Triton Babies" fountain in the Boston Public Garden, which showcases her skill in creating lifelike and dynamic figures.

World War I and Facial Prosthetics

During World War I, Ladd moved to Paris with her husband, Dr. Maynard Ladd, who was working with the American Red Cross. Inspired by the work of Francis Derwent Wood, who had established the "Tin Noses Shop" in London, Ladd founded the "Studio for Portrait-Masks" in Paris in 1917. Her studio was dedicated to creating facial prosthetics for soldiers who had suffered severe facial injuries during the war.

Anna Coleman Ladd and soldier

Ladd's process involved creating masks that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing. She would first take a plaster cast of the soldier's face, then sculpt a mask from thin galvanized copper, which was painted to match the soldier's skin tone. The masks were held in place with spectacles or strings, allowing the wearer to regain some semblance of their pre-war appearance.

Legacy and Later Life

Ladd's work with facial prosthetics was groundbreaking and provided a new sense of hope and dignity to many disfigured veterans. Her contributions were recognized by the French government, which awarded her the Légion d'Honneur for her humanitarian efforts.

After the war, Ladd returned to the United States, where she continued her work as a sculptor. She remained active in the art community until her death on June 3, 1939, in Santa Barbara, California.

Related Pages

• Anaplastology
• World War I
• Sculpture
• Prosthetics