EMBLEM

The shield or emblem of the Institute of Puerto Rican Culture, which was approved in 1956, was rendered by the renowned painter and graphic artist, Lorenzo Homar, based on a concept by Dr. Ricardo E. Alegría.

The emblem represents the three cultures and races that gave rise to the culture and the people of Puerto Rico.

The contribution of the aboriginal element is represented by the cacique holding a cemí, a stone carving that is representative of Taíno art. The figure is surrounded by autochthonous vegetation: manioc, corn, and tobacco.

The contribution made by the Spanish element is represented by the knight in sixteenth century garb holding Nebrija’s Spanish Grammar on a background of the three ships, or carabelas, of the Discovery, with the Cross, the symbol of Christianity.

The African contribution is represented by the black man holding a drum and a machete, or short sword. Next to him there is a mask and plantain foliage. The drum and the mask are symbols of the African heritage in Puerto Rican folklore. The machete refers to the enormous contribution made by workers to the growth of our agriculture, while the plantain foliage evokes vegetation imported from Africa.

The surrounding elements include the Passover Lamb, the central symbol of the Puerto Rico shield.