Lincoln memorial seated

The Lincoln Memorial is a national monument in Washington D.C. housing the iconic seated statue of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th US president.

About this subject

The Lincoln Memorial, located at the western end of the National Mall in Washington D.C., was dedicated in 1922 to honor Abraham Lincoln. Designed by architect Henry Bacon, the building takes the form of a Greek Doric temple with 36 columns representing the 36 states in the Union at the time of Lincoln's death. The central statue, sculpted by Daniel Chester French, stands 5.8 meters (19 feet) tall and is carved from Georgia marble. Lincoln is depicted seated on a throne, with a solemn expression and hands resting on the chair arms, symbolizing his leadership during the American Civil War.

The statue was carved from 28 blocks of white Georgia marble, forming a monumental figure. French used photographs of Lincoln and a life mask of his face to ensure historical accuracy. Lincoln's eyes are slightly downcast, as if contemplating visitors or reflecting on the past. Inscriptions on the side walls include his Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address, texts that highlight Lincoln's commitment to union and freedom.

The Lincoln Memorial is not only a tribute to a president but also a symbol of the struggle for civil rights. In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous "I Have a Dream" speech from the steps of the memorial, cementing the site as a stage for peaceful protests and demands for equality. Over 6 million people visit the memorial annually, and it is open 24 hours a day. The seated statue of Lincoln is one of the most recognizable images in American culture, reproduced on coins, stamps, and in films.

Interestingly, the total height of the statue including the pedestal is 9.1 meters (30 feet). The marble varies in color with subtle veins that add texture. The memorial also appears in the novel "The Da Vinci Code" and numerous documentaries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the height of the Lincoln statue?

The seated statue is 5.8 meters (19 feet) tall, and with the pedestal it reaches 9.1 meters (30 feet).

Who sculpted the statue?

The sculptor Daniel Chester French, with assistance from the Piccirilli brothers in execution.

Where is the Lincoln Memorial located?

On the National Mall in Washington D.C., United States.