For its
grace of composition, its exquisite detail, its total effect of richness
and depth, this portal is worthy of long study.
The sculpture of the portal is all by Ralph Stackpole. In the lower
niches are replicas of "The Man with a Pick," a figure that has been
justly admired as a sincere portrayal of a simple laboring type. The
relief panel in the tympanum represents various types of industry. From
left to right the figures typify Spinning, Building, and Agriculture (or
the clothing, sheltering and feeding of mankind), and Manual Labor, and
Commerce. The group in the niche above the arch shows a young laborer
taking the load from the shoulders of an old man. The single figure at
the top of the arch shows the laborer thinking, and is called "Power."
Note how all these sculptures, while having individual interest, fit
unobtrusively into the lace-like portal.
Palace of Manufactures
The wall of this building is broken by pilasters and inset decorative
panels, and by a series of niches with animal head fountains. The
central portal is pure Renaissance architecture, again suggestive of the
Roman gateway in form.
The sculptures of the doorway, including the two figures of male and
female labor in the niches, and the long high-relief panel, are by
Mahonri Young, who is noted for his simple, powerful treatment of modern
themes.
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