Positioned on the edge of Strömparterren, a bronze boy gazes out at the water. This figure serves as a physical manifestation of Esaias Tegnér's poem Sång till solen. A medallion in green colmar marble shows Tegnér in profile on the sculpture's pedestal towards the sea.
The unveiling ceremony began with a speech by Erik Axel Karlfeldt, secretary of the Swedish Academy, followed by a recitation of the hymn to the sun by Anders de Wahl. Other participants included Prince Eugen, Fredrik Böok, Albert Engström, Sven Hedin, and Verner von Heidenstam. Behind this event, Carl Milles faced a grueling creative process. His constant reworkings caused the project to linger, leaving Milles in a state of total debt by January 1928.
This specific landmark is part of a larger series of Solsångaren sculptures. Milles produced multiple editions of the piece located in diverse settings like Monticello, Illinois, and Zürich Museum. There are also two smaller statuettes and a gilded bronze version.
Modern observers can view the bronze figure overlooking a reflecting pool constructed during the 1930s. This entire arrangement underwent a comprehensive restoration during the period of 2011 to 2012.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Nik Frost
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