“A barefoot girl in an antique tunic sits on a large gray stone” This is the Girls-swimmers Statue in Catherine Park. Right here before you stands a masterpiece of Russian garden sculpture. Created by Pavel Sokolov it’s a bronze fountain. The statue wasn’t always bronze though. It began life as an alabaster model. The final bronze casting was completed in 1816.
The statue’s pose is captivating. The girl sits with her legs tucked beneath her. Her left hand holds a shard of a broken jug. Her right hand supports her bowed head. A strand of hair falls onto her neck. Her left shoulder and chest are bare. This detail adds a touch of realism to the otherwise idealized figure.
Many stories surround the Girls-swimmers Statue. Some believe it depicts a milkmaid from La Fontaine’s fable. Others see a portrait of Empress Elizabeth Alexeevna. The empress’s grief for her deceased daughters and lover is said to be reflected in the girl’s melancholic expression. This interpretation adds layers of depth and emotional resonance to the statue.
The statue was skillfully integrated into the park’s romantic landscape. It’s positioned in an open space surrounded by trees. This setting creates an atmosphere of majesty and mystery. The original water feature was once a spring. It was transformed into a fountain by engineer Augustin Betancourt. The water flows continuously from the broken jug. It symbolizes the fragility of life and the eternity of nature.
The statue endured the hardships of World War II. It was carefully buried to protect it from damage during the German occupation. After the war it was returned to its original location. It’s a symbol of resilience and survival. The broken jug itself was lost during the war and later recreated.
The Girls-swimmers Statue is much more than just a pretty face. It is a rich tapestry of artistic skill historical context and captivating anecdotes. It stands as a poetic symbol of the Tsarskoye Selo gardens. It continues to inspire artists writers and visitors alike. Take a moment to absorb its beauty. Let its story linger in your memory long after you leave Catherine Park.