Detailed
Within the Library of Congress' octagonal Main Reading Room, 8 giant marble columns are capped by ornate entablatures above their capitals.
Each column ultimately supports an allegorical sculpture depicting a particular characteristic of civilized life, with that characteristic spelled out
on a plaque within a wreath; Commerce is shown here. The Commerce sculpture (not shown) is a robed figure holding a schooner and a locomotive.
© Chris Budny
Copyright for this gallery photo belongs solely to Chris Budny. Images may not be copied, downloaded, or used in any way without the express, written permission of the photographer.