Model, The Threatening Shadow, c. 1938 Alfonso Iannelli (American, b. Italy, 1888-1965) Monochromed plaster  11 x 17 x 16" 83.6.2 The Threatening Shadow is the model for a huge sculpture, intended to be 30 or 40 feet high. Iannelli asserted that it "symbolizes the menacing forces - Nazism, Fascism, etc...which most jeopardize world peace." Fascist imagery dominates the work. An ominous wall of arms is raised in salute; and a menacing mass of helmeted heads and bayonets surge forward from the base. With letters to President Roosevelt and New York's Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia, Iannelli actively campaigned for the sculpture to be presented at the 1939 New York World's Fair. Iannelli hoped that his sculpture would awaken the American public to the growing threat, and inspire them to promote world peace. Despite his efforts, The Threatening Shadow was rejected by the Fair's organizers and was never built. Back to Political Propaganda Main Back to Collections Main