Prometheus with the RCMH Rockettes

The Prometheus statue at Rockefeller Center in New York City symbolizes the Greek Titan's mission and the complex's own mission of honoring the past while looking toward the future.

Prometheus is a Greek Titan who defied the gods by giving fire to humanity which is why he is credited with civilization and progress.  Prometheus also symbolizes the human quest for knowledge and striving as well as the ambition to achieve freedom and the greater good for all.  The gold statue is located at Rockefeller Center at the foot of the Christmas tree and where the skating rink is set up during the winter months.  The statue is surrounded by a fountain which represents the sea and is encircled by a ring of the zodiac which represents the heavens. 

Prometheus was created by Paul Manship, a leading American sculptor of the 20th century in 1934. Manship was inspired by Archaic Greek art which he adapted for the statue. An icon of history can be recognizable to the eye, yet it's possible that we know nothing about it.  That is often the case for the gold statue in Rockefeller Center's lower Plaza.  When picturing the skating rink, we don't only imagine the sunken rink itself or the flow of skaters moving in a circle, but we see Prometheus, the 18-foot-tall, eight-ton gilded cast bronze sculpture.

Prometheus has been in the background of countless concerts, tree lightings, skating shows and special events, but few are aware of its meaning or where it came from.  Prometheus is just one piece of public art that was integrated into the plans of  Rockefeller Center, but is definitely one of the most recognizable.  Many sources say Prometheus is the fourth most recognizable statue in the country behind the Lincoln Memorial, Statue of Liberty and Mount Rushmore and is the most photographed piece of art in NYC.  

Prometheus perfectly embodies both ancient myths and forward-thinking progress.  He is depicted in motion, thrusting forward with his right arm held high, handingoff the eternal flame to all of mankind. He sits on a mountain (Earth), is surrounded by the fountain (sea) and is encircled by the ring of the zodiac (heavens). An inscription accompanies the sculpture.  

Prometheus, teacher in every art, brought the fire that hath proved to mortals a means to mighty ends.

John Canning & Co. located in Cheshire, CT, leaders in historic preservation and restoration restored Prometheus using gold leaf gilding.

Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center