The four panels on the Column of Progress show the different mental conditions of men on their onward march thru life.  In the center of the panel stands the man of inspiration — the eagle, bird of inspiration, perched on his shoulder.  He goes thru life with upturned face, depending upon his God for strength.  Beside him on the right is seen the warrior who wins his way by sheer physical strength.  On his left stands the ascetic philosopher, who through constant vigils “hath a lean and hungry look.”  To the extreme left falteringly steps the man who fears the unknown future; his wife and mother sustain him by spiritual cheer.  The figures are in very high relief so that they seem almost human as you gaze upon them.

The Feast of the Sacrifice

Albert Jaegers, Sculptor

In your imagination you see as of old the harvest procession marching around the fields.  It is led by the great bulls for the sacrifice to the gods, that the harvest may yield bounteously.  On either side of the bulls are the youths and the maids carrying flowered festoons.  The long procession passes on and halts before the altar where the bull being sacrificed, the head with its festoons is placed upon the side of the altar.  A most decorative group is this Feast of the Sacrifice — brute strength and the graceful form of the maid making a splendid play of line that most satisfactorily charms the eye.

The Joy of Living

Paul Manship, Sculptor

With perfect abandon come these maidens into the Court of the Universe, carrying their festoons of wild roses.  They bring to the great festival joy and love of life — a telling addition to all that has been expressed in the court.  They savor of old Greek days, these maidens of archaic hair and zigzag draperies.  Paul Manship loves the classic which brings with it much of free expression, and he has adopted the archaic style that recalls the figures such as are seen on old Greek vases.  No one is more joyous among the sculptors than this man.  He has a rarely beautiful gift from the gods.

The Man With the Pick

Ralph Stackpole, Sculptor

An ordinary workman with his pick — and yet how impressed you are with his sincerity.  In him is asserted the dignity, the usefulness, the nobility of all labor.  He helps to turn the wheels of trade, to further the interests of the world.  He works patiently day by day, notwithstanding the fact that those above him reap the benefits.  Mr. Stackpole has been most happy in his expression.  The broad treatment is thoroughly suitable to just such work as this.  There are no accessories employed.  The work is absolutely direct.

The Kneeling Figure

Ralph Stackpole, Sculptor