WASHINGTON, , United States — The 19-foot bronze statue of Thomas Jefferson stands prominently inside the rotunda of the Jefferson Memorial in Washington, Sculpted by Rudulph Evans, this imposing figure of the third President is surrounded by excerpts from the Declaration of Independence and Jefferson's other writings.
Photograph by David Coleman. The centerpiece of the Jefferson Memorial's interior is the majestic 19-foot bronze statue of Thomas Jefferson, created by sculptor Rudulph Evans. Installed in 1947, four years after the memorial's dedication, the statue depicts Jefferson in his prime, standing with a thoughtful, determined expression. He holds the Declaration of Independence in his left hand, symbolizing his role as its principal author and his profound impact on American independence and democracy. The statue's placement within the memorial's rotunda, directly under the domed ceiling, creates a powerful visual focus and enhances the sense of reverence for Jefferson's legacy. The bronze material of the statue contrasts beautifully with the white marble interior of the memorial, creating a striking visual effect. Surrounding the statue, the interior walls of the memorial are inscribed with passages from Jefferson's writings, including the Declaration of Independence, the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, and his personal letters. These carefully chosen excerpts highlight Jefferson's commitment to individual liberty, religious freedom, and education. The combination of the imposing statue and these profound words creates an atmosphere of reflection on the ideals that shaped the early United States. Visitors to the memorial can walk around the statue, allowing for a 360-degree view of Jefferson's figure and the opportunity to read the inscriptions on the walls. This immersive experience within the neoclassical rotunda, inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, offers a powerful connection to American history and the principles of democracy that Jefferson championed throughout his life.
Size: 6682px × 4460px
Location: Jefferson Memorial, Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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