Sweden's grand entrance bridging 1854 and 2018: Charles XIV John's statue

Charles XIV John, the erstwhile monarch of Sweden and Norway, reins in time as his colossal bronze statue, created in Munich, Germany in 1851-1854, stands regally at Slussen in Stockholm. Dressed in the uniform of a Swedish field marshal, the statue symbolizes his grand entrance into the city as the newly elected crown prince in 1810. The statue was commissioned by his son, Oscar I, who funded it from his own personal funds. Originally placed at Slussen in 1854, it was turned southwards in 1930 as Slussen was rebuilt.

In 2015, the statue was relocated to Gubbens gård during the construction of Nya Slussen. After renovation in 2018, it was moved again to Slottsbacken, where it stands presently. The statue was created by the renowned Swedish artist, Bengt Fogelberg, and hosts intricate details that unfold the rich history and symbolism surrounding King Charles XIV John. Amongst the multifarious ornamentations adorning the statue, it displays the Serafimerorden's band, the Riddare med Stora Korset av Svärdsorden, the riddarteckna for Carl XIII:sorden, the Nordstjärneorden, and the Vasaorden. The impressive horse is adorned with saddled trappings, showcasing Sweden's three crowns on its breastplate.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons