Art Deco Mosaic: Intelligence Awakening Mankind - Rockefeller Center, NY, NY

Intelligence Awakening Mankind

by Barry Faulkner

Written Words - Thought -  Spoken Words

GPS: N40° 45.575; W73° 58.831

Short Description:

Intelligence Awakening Mankind is located at 1250 Avenue of the Americas (6th Avenue), between 49th and 50th Streets in Manhattan.

Long Description:

This 79' long by 14' high Art Deco mosaic was designed by Barry Faulkner, fabricated by Ravenna Mosaic Works, and installed in 1933 in the loggia above the entrance to 1250 6th Avenue.  The mosaic represents the triumph of wisdom over ignorance.

Written Words

Spoken Words

The symmetrical design has the central figure stands on a cloud. The word THOUGHT is inscribed below her feet. She is flanked by two smaller figures. The male figure on her right side is holding a book and a quill. He representing WRITTEN WORDS. The female figure on her left side is looking up with her hands outstretched in a gesture. She represents SPOKEN WORDS.

On each side are three messengers. The messengers for the written words are NEWS, POLITICS,  and POETRY. Then there is another floating figure followed by three more messengers representing RELIGION, DRAMA, and MUSIC.  These messengers approach a man and a woman. The man in overalls looks to receive the messages. The woman has her back turned and shields her eyes with her right arm. Beyond is a male and female figure falling into an inferno labeled IGNORANCE.

The messengers for the spoken words are PHYSICS, BIOLOGY, and SPORTS. Then there is large winged figure followed by three more messengers representing PHILOSOPHY, HYGIENE, and PUBLICITY.  These messengers approach a man and a woman both of which are receiving the message.  Beyond are a male and female figures falling into an inferno.

Thought 

Address

Messengers To Mankind