The world is full of architectural marvels that occur in various parts of the planet. Each sculpture or statue displays an intricate interplay of the regional culture with mythology, history, and religion. Each one depicts a story that was left behind by our ancestors for us to ponder upon.
Although while erecting a statue the conventional styles of architecture and sculpting were employed, you might recall the statue of David made out of marble and sculpted by Michelangelo, a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance sculpting, created from 1501 to 1504. Its magnificence is world-renowned but a few artists saw things a little differently and created something that is more than just extraordinary.
Let’s dig into the world of statues that are yet untouched and unheard of.
Jatayu, India
Jatayu Earth’s Center is home to the world’s largest bird sculpture. Spread across 65 acres nestled amidst four hills. As you journey through the picturesque landscapes towards Chadayamangalam in Kollam district, the imposing figure of Jatayu atop the hill commands attention even from a distance. Enshrined in legend, Jatayu is a revered bird from the ancient Indian epic Ramayana.
Giant Hands,Venice,Italy
Crafted by Italian artist Lorenzo Quinn, this art installation was a collaborative effort with the City of Venice and London’s Halcyon Gallery. Completed on May 12, 2017, just in time for the 2017 Venice Biennale, the piece bears the simple title “Support.”
Its striking design features a pair of hands emerging from the waters of the Grand Canal. These hands firmly grasp the ancient walls of the Ca’ Sagredo Hotel, dating back to the 14th century, as if safeguarding it from collapse and submersion into the canal’s depths. After dusk, the installation comes to life under the glow of bright spotlights, ensuring its visibility to all passersby.
King Arthur Statue In England ‘The Gallos’
Standing tall at 8 feet (2.4 meters), the majestic Gallos sculpture by Rubin Eynon graces the grounds of Tintagel Castle, a medieval fortress nestled on the rugged peninsula of Tintagel Island in North Cornwall, United Kingdom. This breathtaking bronze masterpiece captures the essence of a ghostly male figure, adorned with a regal crown and wielding a mighty sword.
Though affectionately known as the “King Arthur statue” by many, the guardians of the site, English Heritage, clarify that Gallos transcends any singular identity. Instead, it symbolizes the rich tapestry of history woven into the very fabric of Tintagel. Believed to have served as a summer retreat for the kings of Dumnonia, the site exudes an aura of timeless grandeur, echoing the footsteps of ancient rulers.
As visitors wander amidst the ruins and rugged cliffs, Gallos stands as a silent sentinel, beckoning them to delve into the mysteries of the past. With each glance, the sculpture invites contemplation, offering a glimpse into the storied heritage of Tintagel Castle and the legendary figures who once roamed its hallowed grounds.
Christ Of The Abyss, Genoa
Submerged beneath the tranquil waters of San Fruttuoso Bay since 1954, the Christ of the Abyss stands as a timeless beacon of serenity and wonder. Nestled along the sun-kissed shores of the Portofino promontory, this sacred statue finds its resting place halfway between the charming coastal towns of Camogli and Portofino.
Resting at a depth of 17 meters, near the eastern edge of the bay and marked by signal buoys, this iconic monument beckons to adventurers and explorers alike. Renowned as one of the area’s premier diving spots, its accessibility and imposing presence make it a magnet for free divers, snorkelers, and curious swimmers alike.
Yet, beyond its awe-inspiring stature lies a realm of unparalleled beauty. Encircled by the breathtaking coastal cliffs and teeming marine life, the bronze figure stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of art and nature. As visitors immerse themselves in its tranquil embrace, they are welcomed into a world where the wonders of the deep intertwine with the timeless allure of the Mediterranean coast.
The Apennine Colossus, Florence, Ialy
Still standing tall amidst the verdant landscapes of Villa di Pratolino is its most breathtaking marvel: the Apennine Colossus, the stone river god. Crouched gracefully by the villa’s tranquil lake, this colossal figure reaches an astonishing height of thirty-six feet, or eleven meters, a testament to its imposing presence.
Crafted by the skilled hands of Flemish sculptor Giambologna in the 1580s, the colossus embodies the essence of the Apennine Mountains, from which the villa’s water sources originate. With a commanding gesture, the colossal figure appears to tame a mythical sea creature or dragon, from whose mouth cascades a gentle stream of water into the serene pond below.
Adorned with stalactites that seem to merge seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, the statue exudes an otherworldly aura, as if it were a natural creation emerging from the earth itself.
The Kiss Of Death, Spain
The Kiss of Death (known as El petó de la mort in Catalan and El peso de la muerte in Spanish) stands as a marble masterpiece within Barcelona’s Poblenou Cemetery. Crafted in 1930, it is widely attributed to Jaume Barba, as his signature graces its side.
Yet, debates persist, with some speculating it might be the creation of Barba’s son-in-law, Joan Fontbernat. Serving as a poignant memento mori, the sculpture depicts death in the form of a winged skeleton tenderly bestowing a kiss upon the brow of a youthful figure.
From the grandeur of the Apennine Colossus to the tranquil depths of the Christ of the Abyss, these sculptures weave tales of history, myth, and culture into the fabric of our world. Each one stands as a testament to human creativity and ingenuity, inviting us to contemplate the mysteries of our past and the beauty of our present. As we gaze upon these remarkable works of art, we are reminded of the enduring power of storytelling and the timeless allure of the human spirit.
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