A Shining Tribute: Solsångaren's Journey from Stockholm to the World

A Shining Tribute: Solsångaren's Journey from Stockholm to the World

Discover the story behind a bronze sculpture that stands as a shining tribute to the life of Swedish poet Esaias Tegnér, and follows its journey to various countries.

Solsångaren, a bronze sculpture by Carl Milles, was unveiled on October 21, 1926, at Strömparterren in Stockholm. The sculpture, often described as 'Song to the Sun,' stands as a tribute to the life of Swedish poet and academician Esaias Tegnér. It was commissioned by the City of Stockholm and was attended by notable figures, including King Gustav V and Verner von Heidenstam.

The sculpture's creation was not without its challenges. Milles requested interest on the money set aside during the work's progress, but the work's prolongation was due to Milles' own constant revisions and delays in material delivery.

Today, Solsångaren can be found in various locations worldwide, but the original remains in Stockholm. The sculpture also exists as a statuette in two smaller sizes and in gilded bronze. In the 1930s, a reflecting pond was added next to Solsängaren, enhancing the statue's beauty.

It can also be found in several places around the world, including Monticello, Illinois, Zürich Museum, and Falls Church, Virginia, but the original remains in Stockholm.

Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons

Written by Nik Frost

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