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Angel of the Waters

A neoclassical bronze sculpture of a robed angel, crowning the iconic Bethesda Fountain in Central Park, serving as a tribute to the city's fresh water system.

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What is the Angel of the Waters?

The Angel of the Waters is a neoclassical bronze sculpture of a robed angel with raised wings, positioned at the top of the Bethesda Fountain in Central Park. The eight-foot figure stands above four cherubim that represent peace, temperance, purity, and health.

Who created the sculpture?

The sculpture was designed by Emma Stebbins in 1868 and cast in Munich. It was the earliest public artwork by a woman in New York City and the only sculpture sanctioned during the early design and construction phase of Central Park.

What is the history and meaning behind the statue?

Dedicated on May 31, 1873, the statue and fountain were designed as a tribute to the Croton Aqueduct, which brought fresh water to New York City in 1842. The name and sculpture were inspired by the biblical story of the Pool of Bethesda and a passage in the Gospel of John.

How much does it cost to visit?

Admission to the Bethesda Fountain and the Angel of the Waters is free.

What are the hours?

Visitor access is governed by Central Park's hours, which are daily from 6:00 am to 1:00 am.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Angel of the Waters is a neoclassical bronze figure of a robed angel with raised wings, perched atop the Bethesda Fountain. This eight-foot sculpture is accompanied by four small cherubim that represent health, purity, temperance, and peace. Designed by sculptor Emma Stebbins in 1868, the work was cast in Munich and officially dedicated on May 31, 1873. It holds a significant place in New York City's art history as the earliest public artwork by a woman in the city and the only sculpture sanctioned during the early design and construction phase of Central Park. Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux envisioned the fountain as the centerpiece of the new terrace at the end of the park's Mall in 1860. The entire site, including the terrace and fountain, was designed by Calvert Vaux and completed in 1873, overlooking the southern shore of the Lake in Manhattan. The Angel of the Waters statue is centered on this terrace, creating a focal point for visitors. Beyond its visual appeal, the fountain serves as a tribute to the Croton Aqueduct, which brought fresh water to New York City in 1842. This commemorates the arrival of clean water, which was essential for the city's growth and health. The sculpture's name and theme are inspired by the biblical story of the Pool of Bethesda, as revealed by Emma Stebbins during the dedication ceremony.

Visitor tips

  • Central Park is open daily from 6:00 am to 1:00 am, so plan your visit accordingly.
  • Admission to the fountain area is free.
  • The site is accessible by paved paths and steps, so be mindful of the 경로 (pathway) when navigating the terrace.
  • Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds at this popular spot.

Nearby context

The Angel of the Waters is the centerpiece of the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, located at the end of the Mall in Central Park, overlooking the southern shore of the Lake.

Sources

Evidence and links