Background
Dankmar Adler (1844-1900) was born in Stadtlengsfeld, Germany, to Rabbi Liebman and Sara Adler. His mother passed away in labor, leaving him and his father to immigrate to the United States. Adler had an early interest in drawing and architecture, and soon after serving in the Civil War, formally began his career. His partnership with Louis Sullivan would create one of the most influential in American architectural history, and he became a driving force in advancing the employment of revolutionary building techniques.
Check out the image hotspots to learn more about his gravestone!
Fun fact: Frank Lloyd Wright got essential early work experience at Adler & Sullivan and remained profoundly influenced by his time there, particularly with Sullivan’s work.
How does Dankmar Adler’s gravestone commemorate his life and accomplishments?
Conversely, how does the gravestone show that Adler was a person beyond his career?
What feelings does the unique design evoke?
Let me know what you think in the comments!
Information and images (except Hebrew epigraph): source
Hebrew epigraph: source
Fun fact: source
Great questions! This is such an impressive (showy?) monument! Thank you for including links to the sources. I love your analysis that the column appears to be holding up the sky. Corinthian columns on gravestones are often allusions to King Solomon’s Temple. Do you think that is going on here? I agree that the allusion to Adler’s work seems most central. Superb job with H5P!