Behold the Eberhardsgruppe a testament to a unique bond. This magnificent marble sculpture stands before you in the Upper Schlossgarten. It depicts Duke Eberhard I. resting trustingly on the lap of a subject.
This isn’t just a statue. It’s a story etched in stone. The scene is inspired by Justinus Kerner’s poem Der reichste Fürst. This poem better known as Preisend mit viel schönen Reden is considered Württemberg’s unofficial anthem.
The poem tells a tale of German princes boasting their riches. Eberhard humbly declares his wealth lies in the trust of his people. He can confidently rest his head in the lap of any subject. The other princes proclaim him the richest of them all.
This reflects the special relationship between Württemberg’s rulers and their subjects. The Münsinger Vertrag ensured the participation of representatives from all estates in governance. King Friedrich later tried to abolish these old estates. The Eberhardsgruppe also highlights the opposing desire to reinstate the old order.
Originally unveiled in 1859 as an equestrian statue the Stuttgart public wasn’t keen on it. It didn’t align with the popular image of their people-friendly ruler. King Karl I relocated it.
Between 1879 and 1881 sculptor Paul Müller created this impressive work. It stands 350 cm high and stretches 500 cm wide. The Eberhardsgruppe was unveiled in 1881 to celebrate Württemberg becoming a kingdom. A truly grand celebration.
Due to Stuttgart 21 construction the monument temporarily moved to the Upper Schlossgarten in 2012. It now resides in this location. Notice the details the careful craftsmanship. Even from afar you can feel the weight of history.
The Eberhardsgruppe isn’t just about a Duke’s sleep. It embodies a complex historical narrative. A testament to a ruler’s trust in his people. And a symbol of the enduring relationship between the people and their rulers. A relationship rooted in mutual respect and an understanding of shared responsibility. A legacy that lives on through the ages in this impressive piece of sculpture.