Behold the Guardadora de Patos. Don’t you find her captivating?
This limestone statue in the Jardim da Estrela is more than just a pretty face. It’s a remarkable piece of history. The Guardadora de Patos or Duck Keeper is a life-sized replica. The original was a smaller marble sculpture. It debuted in 1914 at the National Society of Fine Arts in Lisbon.
This version? It’s made from Lioz limestone. This rare Portuguese stone adds a special touch. The sculptor Antonio Augusto da Costa Motta crafted it. He possibly finished it around 1917. He enlarged the original design to its current size. Then he placed it by one of Jardim da Estrela’s lovely lakes.
The story behind the Duck Keeper is enchanting. It’s inspired by a fairy tale. Poet Eugenio de Castro adapted it into a poem. The sculptor then transformed it into stone. Some say it is a portrait of the artist’s daughter Emily.
Notice the details. Her posture is relaxed. Her right foot is forward. One hand holds flowers. The other feeds the four ducks beside her. The plinth beneath her looks like vegetation. It all adds to the magical feel.
The Guardadora de Patos is a blend of art and narrative. It captures a moment from a beloved fairy tale. It showcases the artistry of Costa Motta. It’s also a lovely spot for quiet contemplation in Lisbon’s beautiful Estrela Gardens. Look closely. Let the story unfold before your eyes. Let the beauty of the Guardadora de Patos sink in. You’ll leave with a new appreciation for the artistry and the stories hidden within Lisbon’s treasures.