The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic symbols of the United States of America. It is a symbol of freedom and democracy, but many people do not know that the Statue of Liberty was originally a different color.
What is the Original Color of the Statue of Liberty?
The original color of the Statue of Liberty was a reddish-brown color, known as “Liberty Copper”. This was the color that the statue had when it was first constructed in 1884.
Why Was the Color Changed?
The Statue of Liberty was designed by French sculptor Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi. He wanted the statue to be a lasting symbol of freedom and democracy, and he chose the color copper to represent the strength and resilience of the United States.
Unfortunately, the copper quickly oxidized in the salty sea air and began to turn green. This process, known as patina, is actually beneficial for the statue because it helps to protect it from the elements. However, many people found the color change to be unsightly and so the color was changed to the familiar green hue that we see today.
What is the Current Color of the Statue of Liberty?
The current color of the Statue of Liberty is a light green, which is the result of the patina process. The Statue of Liberty has been this color since the 1950s, when it was restored and repainted.
The Patina Process
The patina process is a natural process that occurs when copper is exposed to the elements. As the copper oxidizes, it forms a protective layer of green copper oxide on the surface. This layer of oxide helps to protect the copper from further oxidation and damage.
What Materials are Used to Make the Statue of Liberty?
The Statue of Liberty is made of a variety of materials, including copper, iron, and steel. The outer layer of the statue is made of copper, which is why it is susceptible to the patina process. The inner structure of the statue is made of iron and steel, which help to give the statue its strength and durability.
Conclusion
The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic symbols of the United States. It was originally a reddish-brown color, but the copper quickly oxidized and the color changed to a light green. This color change is due to the patina process, which is a natural process that occurs when copper is exposed to the elements. The Statue of Liberty is made of a variety of materials, including copper, iron, and steel, and it has been this color since the 1950s.