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Riggs Bank Medallions
Notable architectural features comprised the Washington Loan & Trust Company Building, which originally stood at the corners of 17th and G St Northwest. Decorative elements from the bank building included the four medallions displayed here. Each medallion was carved from sandstone. Two of the medallions represent George Washington and Alexander Hamilton, commemorating the first U.S. President and Secretary of the Treasury. The remaining medallions represent Minerva, the Goddess of Wisdom and sponsor of trade and commerce; and Mercury, the patron Roman God of Finance and Commerce, with his winged hat and a wooden sailing vessel and staff. More information about the historical Washington Loan & Trust Company Building is included in the adjacent panel to your left. |