Perched atop a lamppost he gazes down upon us. This is the Peterburgsky Angel the guardian of St Petersburg. Created by Roman Shustrov in 2012 this bronze cherub is more than just a sculpture. It’s a symbol. A symbol of hope resilience and the enduring spirit of this remarkable city.
Shustrov a talented puppeteer and sculptor imbued this little angel with a unique charm. He’s small almost whimsical yet his presence is undeniable. The angel’s thoughtful expression and slightly outstretched wings seem to offer comfort and protection. He holds a lantern a beacon in the urban landscape.
This is not Shustrov’s only angel. He also created the Lyubashinsky Angel a figure resembling both Pushkin and Blok. This angel resides in the rotunda of Lyubashinsky Garden. Another poignant sculpture the Sad Angel stands near the St Petersburg State Medical University. It commemorates the doctors lost to COVID-19 a tragedy that also claimed Shustrov himself in 2020.
His widow Maria Kasyanenko modified the papier-mâché model of the Sad Angel before its bronze casting. She added a textured shirt resembling a hair shirt altered the face and refined the wings. It was a collaborative effort a testament to their enduring partnership even in death. Tragically Maria passed away soon after the angel’s unveiling.
The Peterburgsky Angel has become a beloved feature of St Petersburg. People stop to admire him take photos with him and even leave small offerings. He’s more than just a statue. He’s a friend a silent confidant a guardian angel watching over the city he embodies.
He stands as a reminder of St Petersburg’s enduring spirit. He’s a testament to the city’s ability to overcome challenges. He is a symbol of hope a beacon in the urban landscape. This small bronze angel is big in spirit. He is a cherished symbol of St Petersburg a city known for its rich history and resilience. He is the Peterburgsky Angel and he watches over us all.