Serenity, Memorial marble sculpture in Meridian Hill Park, Washington DC, United States.
Serenity is a white Carrara marble statue in Meridian Hill Park depicting a seated female figure positioned on a granite base. The sculpture occupies a spot within the park's landscape where trees and walking paths surround it.
The statue was created in 1924 by Catalan sculptor Josep Clara i Ayats as a memorial to naval officer William Henry Scheutze. It was made during a period when the country placed commemorative sculptures in public spaces to honor military service.
The figure sits in a quiet corner of the park where people pass through on their daily routes, becoming part of the everyday landscape rather than a grand focal point. Its placement among trees and pathways reflects how the neighborhood has integrated this memorial into community life.
The memorial sits in Meridian Hill Park and can be reached through the Columbia Heights neighborhood area by walking or public transportation. Daytime visits work best when natural light shows the marble surfaces clearly.
The statue has missing features including a nose, a hand, and toes, making it one of Washington's most visibly damaged artworks. These losses remain visible today and form part of how the sculpture appears to visitors.
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