From the original blue prints of the Los Angeles Public Library, this drawing shows the proposed placement of the statue of Civilization, even before it was created.
Civilization and the Sphinxes. "Sphinxes symbolizing the hidden mysteries of knowledge and guarding the approach to the Statue of Civilization. In black, unveined Belgian Marble."
Civilization
Civilization's Gown, showing the progression of ancient through modern civilizations
A Library publication, explaining the symbolism and literary heritage of the Civilization and Sphinxes.
Another view of Civilization's Gown
The Left Sphinx: "I am all that was and is to be and no man hath lifted up my veil." --Plutarch.
The Left Sphinx.
The Right Sphinx: "Therefore, the desire of truth, especially that which concerns the gods, is itself a yearning after Divinity."--Plutarch.
The Right Sphinx.
A library publication from LAPL's archives. The books held by the Sphinxes contain phrases from Plutarch's Morals (On Isis and Osiris). The Sphinxes are carved from black Belgian Marble.
Here in a letter to Librarian Everett Perry, Lawrie advises on the lighting, as well as the care of the statues of Civilization and the Sphinxes