Peace Fountain

The Peace Fountain is a bronze sculpture depicting the Archangel Michael triumphing over Satan, surrounded by animals and celestial figures. The work sits beside the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in Morningside Heights and features detailed sculptural elements throughout its layered design.

The sculpture was designed and built in 1985 by artist Greg Wyatt while he served as sculptor-in-residence at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine. The work emerged as a major artistic contribution to the religious complex and has defined the plaza ever since.

The fountain blends spiritual imagery with scientific references through its DNA helix foundation and representations of thinkers like Einstein and Gandhi. This mix of faith and knowledge shapes how visitors experience the space around the central figure.

The water features are currently non-operational, but the bronze sculptures can be viewed up close from all angles. Daytime visits work best when natural light highlights the details of the figures and surrounding animal forms.

The sculpture is ringed by nine bronze giraffes, designed alongside additional animal sculptures created in collaboration with local schoolchildren. This partnership between professional artist and young creators gives the work a special community dimension.