The symbol of a dove with an olive branch has been accepted in many religions and places as a one of love and peace. The symbol is rich in meaning and is the pre-eminent symbol of peace. Shown in this mosaic is a dove with an olive branch in its beak with wings outstretched for flight, and above the dove are dark menacing clouds. The bird is flying towards a brighter horizon seeking a peaceful refuge.

This mosaic replica was inspired by a fragment found of a mosaic that had been executed in the apse of the Old Basilica of Saint Peter in Rome, Italy. The original fragment is about 60 cm high by 82 cm wide and this mosaic was replicated to be the same size. Dedicated to their craft, the Vatican Mosaic Studio used enamels that were made from a special secret chemical composition typical to mosaic making in 1727 for this unique mosaic replica. It has a special bronze frame that was made in 1796.

On his official visit to the United Nations in 1979, Pope John Paul II presented the United Nations with this mosaic of the "Dove of Peace," a reproduction of a mosaic painted in the 12th century. United Nations Secretary-General Kurt Waldheim accepted it on behalf of the United Nations.