The lady on the New York statue, famously known as the Statue of Liberty, is named Liberty. She is a personification of liberty, symbolizing freedom and democracy.
Understanding the Statue of Liberty
The iconic New York statue is officially named the Statue of Liberty, but its full, formal title is Liberty Enlightening the World (French: La Liberté éclairant le monde). This colossal neoclassical sculpture stands prominently on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, within New York City, serving as a beacon of hope and a welcoming symbol for immigrants arriving in the United States.
Key Facts About Lady Liberty
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Liberty Enlightening the World |
| Common Name | Statue of Liberty |
| Figure Represented | Lady Liberty (personification of Liberty) |
| Type of Sculpture | Colossal neoclassical sculpture |
| Location | Liberty Island, New York Harbor, New York City |
| Symbolizes | Freedom, democracy, international friendship |
The Symbolism Behind Liberty
The figure of Liberty is depicted as a robed Roman goddess, holding a torch high in her right hand, representing enlightenment, and a tabula ansata (a tablet evoking the law) in her left hand, inscribed with the date of the American Declaration of Independence. At her feet lies a broken shackle, symbolizing the abolition of slavery and liberation from oppression.
This monumental artwork, a gift from the people of France to the United States, has become one of the most recognizable symbols globally. Her name, Liberty, embodies the core values of the nation she oversees, standing as a constant reminder of the pursuit of freedom and the opportunities it offers.
To learn more about this historical landmark, visit the official Statue of Liberty Wikipedia page.
