Amor patriae. Allegory symbolizing patriotism

In 1776 the Danish King Christian 7 introduced nationality laws, which meant that Government posts and other public offices should be reserved exclusively for people born in Denmark.

The following year C.F. Stanley was appointed professor at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts. The nationality laws reflected a growing awareness of national identity and history, as did Stanley’s sculpture, created the same year that he obtained Danish citizenship.

The title can be translated as ‘Love of one’s country’. This establishes a kinship with the king’s motto, “Honour through love of one’s country”, and the picture symbolically presents honour as the result of patriotic deeds.

The allegorical figure is shown standing by his armour, shield, sword, and arrow, quite literally trampling another sword underfoot. In reward of the deeds suggested, he bears two laurel wreaths, the symbol of honour.

The figure can, however, both be read as a symbol of patriotism and as an idealised patriotic citizen. During the 1760s Stanley spent some time in Rome where he followed discussions of the ideal physique and the ideal structure of society. Judging by the figure’s classical pose, heroic musculature and studied ideal proportions, the late absolute monarchy must have created a new breed of ideal subjects.

I make the figures with marble, a resistant material, which allows the figure to be exposed even outdoors and look even more beautiful over the years.

The statue helps people calm down, not impatient, not hasty. It reminds us there are many difficulties and sadness outside but if we just think about all the goodness, just smile and you will feel the life much easier.

Our figures are made by hand using high quality natural marble stone therefor each piece is unique and may slightly be different in shape and color.

★ Can be placed in the living room, garden, bonsai office, bedroom, bookstore, study, library, store, desk, car.
★ Gift idea for your friends and family, for those who are struggling, tired, depressed.

Material: natural marble

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