LONDON, United Kingdom — Sculptures adorning the pediment above the main entrance of the British Museum in downtown London. The museum, dedicated to human history and culture, houses approximately 8 million works in its permanent collection, showcasing artifacts from around the world.
Photograph by David Coleman. The sculptures above the main entrance of the British Museum exemplify the grandeur of neoclassical architecture and symbolize the institution's dedication to human knowledge and cultural heritage. Designed by Sir Robert Smirke in the early 19th century, the museum's facade features a prominent pediment adorned with allegorical figures that represent the progress of civilization. These sculptures, created by Sir Richard Westmacott between 1847 and 1851, depict "The Progress of Civilization" in a series of classical figures. At the center stands the allegorical figure of Progress, flanked by representations of various disciplines and human achievements. The composition includes figures symbolizing mathematics, drama, poetry, music, and natural science, among others. This artistic representation above the entrance serves as a visual prelude to the vast collection housed within the museum's walls. Founded in 1753 and opened to the public in 1759, the British Museum has grown to become one of the world's preeminent cultural institutions. Its collection of approximately 8 million works spans the entirety of human history and culture, from ancient civilizations to modern times. Located on Great Russell Street in London's Bloomsbury district, the museum's Greek Revival style architecture, with its imposing colonnade and sculptural decorations, has become an iconic symbol of London's rich cultural landscape and a testament to the enduring pursuit of knowledge and understanding of our shared human heritage.
Size: 4476px × 6706px
Location: Bloomsbury, London, Greater London, United Kingdom
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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