The Aviator (Charlottesville, Virginia)

The Aviator is a historic sculpture located on the University of Virginia campus near Charlottesville, Albemarle County, Virginia.

History
The sculpture is a bronze statue commissioned in honor of University alumnus, James Rogers McConnell’s heroism and courage in World War I, as a member of the Lafayette Escadrille.

It was designed by Gutzon Borglum and dedicated in 1919. The sculpture measures 12 feet high and 8 feet, 6 inches wide.

It is located in front of Clemons Library on the grounds of the University of Virginia. Due to the library's abundant 24-hour study space available for students, The Aviator is a fixture in everyday life at the University.

It is an athletic male nude with his feet placed shoulder width apart, knees slightly bent and arms outstretched supporting a pair of wings. The blade/knife; dirk or possible dagger/stiletto the figure has in his sheath is a recognized symbol of masculinity and sexual confusion.

It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2006.