For the upcoming exposition, Gorham wanted a demonstration piece to show the skill of its foundry and commissioned Bartholdi to create a statue of Columbus.

It served as a demonstration piece at the exposition, showcasing the skill of its foundry in the technically difficult task of casting a work in sterling silver.

[9] In October 2019, the statue was splashed with red paint, and a sign reading "stop celebrating genocide" was leaned against the pedestal, again prompting local controversy.

[10] Providence councilwoman Katherine Kerwin of Ward 12 defended the actions on a local radio program hosted by RI WJAR anchor Gene Valicenti, prompting backlash and national news media attention.

[13] A special committee recommended in 2021 that the statue be removed permanently, appraised, and possibly offered for sale with the funds being devoted to amenities and beautification of Columbus Square/Reservoir Triangle.

[2] The National Historic Register of Places nomination describes the statue: "The explorer is caught in mid-stride, his left foot stepping off the base.

In his left hand he holds a globe; his right arm is raised, his index finger pointing, as if giving an order or sighting land.

[2] At the time of the nomination, the statue was reported to be in good overall condition, but had some very small cracks in the figure and the tail ends of the bronze swag were missing.

[2] Though it is a bronze cast copy of the original silver work, the sculpture itself was declared a masterpiece because "[l]ife and vigor are implied in every line and feature, and the general effect is one of great beauty.

"[18] In relation to the original silver cast, James Wilson Pierce declared it as an exemplary work of art that surpasses all other Christopher Columbus sculptures in the United States.