Printer’s Marks – Aldus
History Reference Room
Aldus Pius Manutius, 1449-1515, was an Italian humanist who founded the Aldine Press in Venice. Credited for producing the first italic type, was noted for his small, or pocket, sized editions of classics from the era. Manutius is considered the first and most celebrated of the scholar-printers of the Renaissance. Manutius is famous for using the dolphin and anchor as his printer’s mark. A printer's mark is the unique marking showing that a book was printed by a specific company or person. It could be used to protect copyright or prove the quality and edition of the book.
Medallion – United States
Great Hall (on the floor)
The Indiana State Library has several bronze inserts on the floor of the Great Hall lobby. The coins represent the many nations that were present in 1934. The United States bronze medallion depicts the Coronet Liberty Head Half Eagle.
Owls – Book Case Pilasters
2nd Floor of the Indiana State Library
The Indiana State Library utilizes various forms of symbolism throughout the building. The owl symbolizes learning or wisdom. The book case pilasters are original to the 1934 building.
Mural – Indian’s Gift of Corn
Manuscripts Reading Room (above door entrance)
“Indian’s Gift of Corn,” a mural painted by New York artist J. Scott Williams, depicts the hunter-gather culture of Native Americans that inhabited the region.
Mural – Song of Labor
History Reference Room
“Song of Labor,” a mural painted by New York artist J. Scott Williams, depicts the hard work required of early Indiana settlers. Indiana settlers relied on farming and agriculture as their way of life.
Wood Carving – The Indian and the Pioneers
Indiana Reference Room
The wood carving, displayed on both sides of the doorway separating the Manuscripts Reading Room and the Browsing Collection, depict a Native American crouched behind a large rock with tomahawk as he overlooks a small group of settlers with their covered wagon. The carving is another representation of the uneasy relationship between Native Americans and settlers.
Stain Glass - Signing of
the Indiana Constitution
Great Hall
Designed in 1934 by New York artist, J. Scott Williams, this stain glass depicts the signing of the Indiana Constitution in 1816. On the left side is Indiana Territorial Governor William Henry Harrison. On the right side is American Revolution war hero and founder of Ft. Wayne, General Anthony Wayne. The top panel, above the Constitution signers, depicts the Indiana state flag.
Medallion – United States
Great Hall (on the floor)
The Indiana State Library has several bronze inserts on the floor of the Great Hall lobby. The coins represent the many nations that were present in 1934. The United States bronze medallion depicts the Coronet Liberty Head Half Eagle.
