The Mace of Rhodes College, 2000

Abstract

This is an image of The Mace of Rhodes College. It was Commissioned by the college in 2000 and crafted by Memphis artist Brian Russell '83, the mace is now carried by senior faculty member in formal academic processions. The shaft of walnut, bronze and glass contains symbols from the college seal. The open Bible atop the blue glass orb is taken from the very center of the seal. The other symbols are placed around the orb: the owl, the Greek symbol of wisdom; the raised right arm representing the Masonic origin of the college in 1848; the burning bush, or the presence of God; and the lotus flower, the Egyptian symbol of immortality. The bronze leaves surrounding the orb represent the oak and laurel on the college seal, emblematic of strength and victory. Information from the Rhodes Magazine, Summer, 2000 back cover.