| Altar in the rotunda of the Fine Arts Palace, designed by the architect, Bernard R. Maybeck. The kneeling figure is executed from Maybeck's design by Ralph Stackpole. At close range it shows that it was roughly worked out so that it should have carrying quality. When observed from across the lagoon, it reveals what seems like aremarkable finish, as well as fine simplicity and grace. The panel of the altar symbolizes "Genius" or "The Source of Genius." The subject is indicated by the youth in the center, guarded by two lions. On either side are the arts looking toward genius for guidance. Their nakedness suggests untrammeled nature and freedom from predudice. |
