The Mason's Craft

As work crews and stonemasons rebuilt Centre Block after the fire, they went all out in leaving the signature of their skills all over. There are symbols of the country to be found in their carvings, as well as customized work, very intricate carvings that lend the building an artistic sensibility. This is in keeping with the other buildings on Parliament Hill, which all have craftmanship in their details.

The main entrance to Centre Block, at the base of the Peace Tower, has many such details curving around its front arch, provincial symbols from across the country, and finely worked etchings.

Flanking the visitor on the way in or out are two animals, representing the English and French roots of the country. The lion bears the Union Jack and crested shield of Britain.

While the unicorn bears the crest and fleur-de-lys of the French. Both figures mix well with the stonework behind.

Even in small ways, the craftmanship of the stonemasons show themselves. This is right around the corner on the tower, less formal than the front arch, but the artistic streak does show itself.

Another carving, and this one is inside the tower, a small face on the wall near the elevator up to the observation deck. 

This last sculpture of this set is also inside, a stylistic carving high over Confederation Hall, the large lobby one walks into beyond the main entrance. I'll show you that area in the next blog.