It was designed with reference to the model of torch of the 1948 London Games. On the base of the chalice-shaped top part, the Olympic rings and inscription "XVI Olympiad Melbourne 1956".

The torch for the equestrian competitions in Stockholm from the same year had a similar form.

Credit : IOC

For further info., please visit http://www.olympic.org/uk/games/past/index_uk.asp?OLGT=1&OLGY=1956.