Sculpture

I went for a pleasant walk in the afternoon sun in and around Dún Laoghaire, taking in the Farmers Market on the way.

It was bright and sunny, but quite chilly, so I didn't dawdle much. This sculpture is situated on a bit of height at the end of Haigh Terrace, overlooking the seafront. I've long been fascinated by it, but today was the first time I've actually pointed the camera at it.

Plaques around the base describe the piece in several different languages. What they say is this:

This Triple Cross, designed by Andrew O'Connor, an American sculptor of Irish descent, was first exhibited at the Paris Salon of 1926. On 9th June 1931, a public meeting was held which agreed to erect a monument to Christ the King in Dún Laoghaire. Trustees and committee were appointed and subscriptions came from persons of all religious denominations. It was decided in 1949 that this sculpture, which had been cast in bronze before the War, was eminently suitable.

In June 1976, The Council of the Borough of Dún Laoghaire agreed to the siting of the monument in this location, and it was erected here on 16th December 1978.

The tripartite monument symbolizes three distinct aspects of Christ's lifeL Desolation -- the crucifixion under a darkening cloud; Consolation -- Christ resurrected, completely restored, even youthful, with arms outstretched to console all mankind; Triumph -- Christ the King in majesty, emerging from the tomb.

What isn't mentioned in that description is that the piece was hidden in France during the War to avoid its three tonnes being melted down for war use. It was eventually delivered to Dun Laoghaire in 1949. However, due to local clerical opposition to the stark design the statue was not erected and for many years was stored in a back garden on Rochestown Avenue. only being unveiled forty-seven years after the public meeting in the town hail.

Big

Back home it was time for email checking, a bite to eat and a little nap, before settling down to do some work. It's just after midnight as I write this, so time for bed. Good night all.

p.s. I've back-blipped yesterday.