I used to think that this sculpture depicted an ancient soldier that returns home after fighting his last battle. Here he is overlooking the Rhein river holding his head in his hand wondering what in the world he will do now that there are no more battles to fight. Here is the real story behind this sculpture...
This sculpture actually represents Helvetia, the mother of the Swiss people. She has just completed a tour of her country and after an exhausting walk through the city of Basel, she stopped, put down her shield, spear, and suitcase to have a rest. Thanks goes to our friend Mari Ellen Reeser for pointing out the real story to us. In Switzerland, Helvetia is the equivalant of Mother Liberty and she is featured on several of Switzerland's coins.
Basel rows of homes bordering the Rhein.
Basel Cathedral. Man, that's a big lamp on top of the cathedral tower!! 
1 comment:
fyi, this "ancient soldier" is a woman. Her name is "Helvetia" and if you read the plaque (Sp?) you read that she escaped from the Frank coin...anyhow, i love this (swiss) humorous piece of art!
Post a Comment