Eleven metres tall she hangs. A guardian angel in Zurich’s main station. L’ange protecteur they call her. This isn’t just any angel. This is a Nana. One of Niki de Saint Phalle’s famous creations.
Niki de Saint Phalle a French-American artist sculpted this giant. She envisioned joyful liberated women. These Nanas were her symbols of a matriarchal age to come. This particular angel though carries more than just a message of empowerment. She holds communicating jars. Symbols of balance patience and moderation.
Securitas a security company gifted L’ange protecteur. It was in 1997 a celebration of the Swiss Federal Railway’s 150th anniversary. Imagine the spectacle of her arrival. Too large for a cargo plane she was shipped in three parts. From California to Rotterdam then to Basel. Finally she arrived in Zurich. A low-loader carried her to her final home. Niki de Saint Phalle herself oversaw the reassembly. At two in the morning she took her place.
The angel’s vibrant colours are watercolours. This makes her delicate. She requires special care. Every three months workers clean her. They use feather dusters and compressed air. This gentle approach preserves her delicate paintwork. Otherwise the colours might fade.
Look closer. Notice the silver pitchers she holds. Connected by illuminated red wires. They represent lifelines. Positive energy flows through them. Niki intended this to make travellers feel protected.
L’ange protecteur has faced challenges. Condensation drips from the ceiling. Birds leave droppings. Brake dust from the trains coats her. Yet she remains a symbol of hope and strength. A reminder that even in a bustling station peace and protection can be found. She’s more than just a sculpture. She’s a testament to an artist’s vision. A symbol of a city’s spirit and a constant guardian.