Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Indiana War Memorial

Indianapolis showcases an array of architectural peices that pay homage to the sacrifices of veterans on a scale of grandure second only to Washington D.C.(at least thats what indy.gov says) Just this structure alone is enough to blog about for at least two weeks. This particular style of architecture can be described in one word. Allegory. In the case of a work that is to display the valor and courage of the individuals who faught and died for this country, it is indeed sufficient to erect and edifice that tells a story and portrays concepts that can only be conveyed through a use of mythical characters like the ones used all over this work. If you pay attention the structure has six ionic columns. In times past the number 6 has come to convey perfection. But the story doesn't stop there. If one examines the figures on top of the entablature of the six columns, they are representative of six virtues so to speak. These virtues are patriotism, liberty, peace, courage, victory, and memory. this is very appropriate as these are qualities that are not only reserved for the soldiers but also qualities that he architect may be hoping to inspire in all that experience this structure. Below I have compiles pictures of these six mythical characters.


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