|
Seafaring (or Navigation)
P. Barrat studio. Before 1722
Seafaring is symbolized by the figure of a young woman leaning against a rudder. She holds a compass in her right hand and an unfolded map showing the North and Baltic Sea coasts in her left.
Unfortunately the marble has distinctly weathered, and not all the details can be seen. However, a description of the sculpture tells us that there was a relief face in the halo of rays depicted in the place of St Petersburg. This map and especially the latter detail leave no doubts that the statue was made by the special request. The symbolism of the statue is clearly connected with the creation of the Russian fleet, with the outlet of Russia to the sea, and with the foundation of St Petersburg.
In 1999, the original Seafaring statue was moved indoors, while a copy was placed in the alley of the Summer Garden.
|
