|
| Title of Piece: |
Rackham (Detroit) Façade Bas Reliefs |
| Artist: |
Marshall Fredericks |
| Acquired: |
1941 |
| Material(s): |
White Georgia marble; plus some of cast bronze |
| Category: |
Architectural Feature |
| Location: |
Façades of Rackham Educational Memorial, 100 Farnsworth, Detroit |
| Comments: |
This building in downtown Detroit, close by the Detroit Institute of Arts and the Detroit Public Library, was a gift of the Horace and Mary Rackham Fund (as was the Rackham Building in Ann Arbor). Given equally to the University of Michigan and the Engineering Society of Detroit, the bas reliefs on all façades were the work of noted Michigan sculptor Marshall Fredericks. Over the main entrance portal, surmounting the four piers, are a group of four bas reliefs symbolizing the integrated purpose of the building. On the right pier is a figure representing learning to identify the university’s function, and on the left pier is a relief which symbolizes engineering. Both reliefs are tied together by the rays of the sun on the center two piers, symbolizing human progress. Among the large bas reliefs carved from massive blocks of marble are figures on each of the wings which also represent learning and engineering (front, back, and both ends of the building). These wings provide individual entrances to the Engineering Society and the University of Michigan’s Extension Service, and also feature decorative detailing in cast bronze. In addition, two carvings are incised into the stone and represent periods of educational development; the one shown in the photo depicts "technical aspects of Modern Education" which is "illustrated by the moving picture projector and the microscope." Fredericks is also the sculptor of the numerous bas reliefs on the LS&A building, as well as the American Eagle at Michigan Stadium. The beauty continues inside, where the hallway in the Engineering section features a Pewabic tile fountain (see photo), made by the famous Pewabic Pottery firm of Detroit. "The design is made with tilework in delightful shades of blue and green with red and gold accents. This fountain is a gift to the Engineering Society of Detroit from Mrs. William B. Stratton [Mary Chase Perry Stratton] and was executed by her in her studio at the Pewabic Potteries." |
Last
modified:
Thursday November 15 2007
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