The Face of the Statue of Liberty: The Extraordinary Life of Isabella Boyer
Isabella Boyer’s life reads like an exciting novel, filled with remarkable events and encounters that shaped her destiny and left an indelible mark on history. Born in Paris, Isabella was the daughter of an African pastry chef and an English mother. Her unique heritage endowed her with a special beauty, which would later become iconic.
At the age of 20, Isabella married Isaac Singer, the inventor of the famous sewing machine. Despite their 30-year age difference—Isaac was 50 years old at the time—their union was a significant turning point in Isabella’s life. When Isaac passed away, Isabella inherited his substantial fortune, making her the richest woman in the country.
Isabella’s newfound wealth and status opened many doors for her, and she began to travel the world. During her travels, she married Victor Robstett, a Dutch violinist, and became a countess. Her social prominence grew, and she became a well-known figure in both America and Europe.
One of the most significant encounters in Isabella’s life was with the French sculptor Frédéric Bartholdi. They met at a world event, where Bartholdi was struck by Isabella’s beauty and compelling life story. Inspired by her, Bartholdi used Isabella’s face as the model for one of his most famous works: the Statue of Liberty. This iconic statue, a symbol of freedom and American pride, stands tall in New York Harbor, bearing the face of Isabella Boyer for all to see.
Isabella’s life continued to be eventful. She married a third time and eventually passed away in Paris in 1904 at the age of 62. Although she is no longer with us, her legacy endures through the Statue of Liberty, a timeless emblem of hope and liberty.
Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, beauty, and the enduring human spirit. Isabella Boyer’s life not only embodies the American dream but also serves as an inspiration to generations who see her face in the Statue of Liberty, a beacon of freedom and pride.
