Oscar Straus Memorial, Memorial fountain at Federal Triangle, United States.
The Oscar Straus Memorial is a marble fountain with two bronze sculptures created by Adolph Alexander Weinman located at 14th Street. The composition features a central water basin flanked by the two figural groups in a balanced arrangement.
Congress authorized the memorial in 1927 to honor Oscar Straus, who served as the first Jewish Cabinet member under President Theodore Roosevelt. This appointment represented a significant moment for minority representation in government office.
The two sculptural groups represent Justice and Reason, displaying figures that embody religious freedom and the principles of commerce and labor. These works communicate to visitors today how different values are meant to balance within society.
The memorial stands in front of the Ronald Reagan Building between Pennsylvania Avenue and Constitution Avenue, accessible via public transportation. The location sits in a central district with several entry points to nearby federal buildings.
The bronze sculptures receive specialized maintenance every three to five years to protect them from environmental damage. This regular care helps preserve the details and appearance of the artworks for future generations.
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