Apotheosis of Science and Arts

Sculptor: Torquat Tasso
Architect: Josep Vilaseca
Materials: Artificial stone of portland cement
Inauguration: May 20, 1888

Torquat Tasso made the Apotheosis of Arts and Sciences in the frieze on the left side of the Arc de Triomphe. Of a more unitary character than the main ones, its composition is centered on the high relief of Apollo, who points to the Arts with his left hand and holds a flame with his right, a symbol of progress that Science carries. From right to left are represented the painting, symbolized by a woman with a palette, and sculpture and architecture by two figures with a gouge and a temple in low relief. On his left are Euterpe and Terpsichore, muses of music and dance, with a lyre and singer; A woman with a flame in her hand and an old man leaning on a cannon, both cryptic symbols of Science.

It should be noted the balanced composition with daring rhythms, which through contrasted postures are related in an appropriate way to the central figure. However, the different types of relief create a dynamic surface with smooth clear contrasts.