The Memorial is replete with symbolic elements . The 36 columns represent the states of the Union at the time of Lincoln 's death ; the 48 stone festoons above the columns represent the 48 states in 1922 . Inside , each inscription is surmounted by a mural by Jules Guerin portraying principles seen as evident in Lincoln 's life : Freedom , Liberty , Immortality , Justice , and the Law on the south wall ; Unity , Fraternity , and Charity on the north . Cypress trees , representing Eternity , are in the murals ' backgrounds . The murals ' paint incorporated kerosene and wax to protect the exposed artwork from fluctuations in temperature and moisture
Lincoln 's death
Assassination of Abraham Lincoln
Lincoln Memorial