[1][2][3][4] In its left hand, the large seated figure holds a gilt bronze sphere emanating rays to symbolize God.

A plaque in front of the sculpture bears the following inscription: "The artist expresses the concept that God, through the spirit of man, is manifested in the family, the noblest human relationship.

[10] After casting, the sculpture underwent acidic treatments for several weeks to oxidize the bronze and to create the warm, aged green color.

[10] After the 4,800 mile journey across the Atlantic Ocean and through the Saint Lawrence Seaway, the freighter arrived at the Port of Detroit on September 20, 1958.

[10][11] The Thomas Schulte was the only freighter with sufficient below deck storage space to accommodate the sculpture while still being able to navigate the Saint Lawrence Seaway.

[13] The annual maintenance also includes applying heat to the bronze surface and cupric nitrate in order to preserve the green color and patina.

[21] In 2017, the Detroit-Wayne Joint Building Authority said that based on the most recent appraisal of the sculpture, it would cost $6 million to repair significant damage.

[22] Another example of local sports team representation is the use of an image of the sculpture as part of the crest of the Detroit City Football Club.

[29][30] The ceremonial naming of the section of the John C. Lodge Freeway running from Livernois to I-94 in honor of Aretha Franklin was held in front of the sculpture in 2019.

[31][32] Spirit Plaza was the site of a floral tribute, which included 3,000 roses, that commemorated Big Sean's Detroit 2 album release on September 4, 2020.

[34][35] In 2020, The Spirit of Detroit wore a blue-green shirt and a white ribbon to commemorate medical and "essential" workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.