Although many visitors first view the Great hall after climbing the stairs from the Library's ground floor entrance, the Great Hall was designed so that the most spectacular view awaits those who enter through the bronze doors at the first floor west entrance. From here one steps into the sumptuously decorated main vestibule, with its gleaming white marble arches, stucco decorations and heavily-paneled and gold-ornamental ceiling. On the second floor, as your eye travels up the central staircase you see the marble mosaic of Minerva, the Protector of Civilization. Created by Elihu Vedder it dominates the staircase landing that leads to the Visitor Center that overlooks the Main Reading Room. In her hand she holds a list of the elements of civilization and her shield of war lays at her feet.

Carol Highsmith, the distinguished photographer, has comprehensively photographed the interior of the Thomas Jefferson building and along with much of her other work, has donated them to the Library of Congress.

Medium : 1 color tiff file

Created/Published : 2007

Creator : Carol Highsmith, photographer, 1946 -

Forms part of the Carol Highsmith Archive and is housed in the Prints and Photographs Division of the Library of Congress

Availability: Special Order: ships in 3-4 weeks

Product #: highsm03185E