Today's we have an example of an acroterion. And a lovely example indeed. This is on top of the pediment at the National Archives. The sculptures on this building were designed by on man, perhaps the last great American architect, James Earle Fraser. Fraser was the protege of the great American sculptor Augustus Saint Gaudens. Fortunately for us the capitol is filled with Fraser's work (from the pair of gold equestrian sculptures by the Lincoln Memorial, to the Ericcson Memorial). His work on the National Archive pediment and around the top of the building and the sculptures at the base are all of his work and together comprise his greatest masterpiece.
Look at the detail on this acroterion. The beautify and fluid lines of the sculpture which serves as the crowning achievement of this building over its main entrance.
