Friday, July 23, 2010

The Phoenix


The Phoenix 
Yrsa Von Leister 
Bronze and sheet copper statue, 1973 
Queen Victoria Gardens

Baroness Yrsa Von Leister's winged figure reaches some three metres above the waters of a pond in Queen Victoria Gardens. Originally associated with ancient Egyptians' longings for immortality, the phoenix in Christianity has long been linked to resurrection and everlasting life. Von Leister sculpted the symbolic figure for the Roman Catholic archdiocese of Melbourne following the 40th International Eucharistic Congress, held here in 1973. Archbishop Cardinal Knox then donated the work to the Melbourne City Council for the support it had shown during the congress. 

Von Leister flew to Australia to complete finishing touches to the rough-hewn sculpture prior to its unveiling. In March 1976, the Most Reverend T.F. Little gifted the sculpture to the citizens of Melbourne on behalf of the Melbourne Diocesan Historical Commission. He said, 'The ... phoenix is accepted throughout the world as symbolising everlasting life. It glorifies Him who is truth and eternal life.'

11 comments:

stan said...

It's good that u chose the colour touchup as it gives it a more sombre feel.

Jim said...

A moody shot.

EG CameraGirl said...

The story of the Phoenix is a glorious one.

SandyCarlson said...

A very beautiful photo. Thanks.

Peter said...

Like the atmosphere .. or the "vibe". great story accompanying too!

iheartsunnydays said...

Great story, gorgeous capture :)

BraCom said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
BraCom said...

Thanks for your visit and comment

A nice shot, very good mood

Regards, Bram

Seen on SkyWatch Friday

Gemma Wiseman said...

A fantastic sculpture with an interesting history! Love the drama of the monochrome!

Siromade said...

Nice post here. It's a great shots.

T. Becque said...

I like the slight green tinge (or am I seeing things?) :)

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