Norman Lincoln Rockwell's "Four Freedoms" including (clockwise):
"Freedom of Worship, Freedom from Want, Freedom from Fear, Freedom
of Speech" |
Robert Weir's "Embarkation of the Pilgrims" is displayed in the rotunda of
the United States Capital. It depicts the Pilgrims on the deck of
the ship Speedwell on July 22, 1620, before they departed from Delfs
Haven, Holland, for North America, where they sought religious
freedom. The group is solemn and contemplative as they pray for
divine protection through their voyage; the words "God with us"
appear on the sail in the upper left corner.
The figures at the center of the composition are William Brewster,
holding the Geneva Bible; Governor Carver, kneeling with head bowed
and hat in hand; and pastor John Robinson, with extended arms,
looking Heavenward. The armor, helmet, and musket in the foreground
represent the tools that the Pilgrims will use for protection in the
new and unfamiliar land. In the background on the right are the city
and people the Pilgrims leave, and on the left a rainbow represents
the hope and promise of what lies ahead. |
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