“Ever tried catching a greased pig?” I ask. The Porquinho Sculpture captures the spirit of a classic, messy game. It is a bronze artwork called “A Pega do Porco” or “Porco Ensebado.” It translates to “The Pig Catch” or “Greased Pig.”
Ricardo Cipicchia created this sculpture in 1950. Initially, it stood in Largo da Pólvora. That is in the Liberdade neighborhood. In 1970, it moved to its current home here in Ibirapuera Park. This relocation reflects a common trend in São Paulo. Many sculptures and monuments have been moved over the years.
The Porquinho Sculpture depicts a traditional children’s game. This game was common in Brazil. Especially in São Paulo. Back then, many homes had dirt streets and kept animals. People raised chickens and pigs in their yards. The game involved greasing a piglet with lard. Then, they released it into a yard or field. Children would try to catch it with their bare hands. Adults often joined in the fun.
The sculpture represents two children trying to catch a greased pig. The artist, Ricardo Cipicchia, captured a moment of Brazilian folklore. This work is one of several sculptures by Cipicchia in São Paulo.
You can find the Porquinho Sculpture near Gate 6. It is in the Praça do Porquinho. That translates to “Piglet Square”. The sculpture stands 0.94 meters tall and 0.38 meters wide. Its length is 0.77 meters. Its width is 0.87 meters.
The sculpture is listed as public property. It is part of the Monumentos de São Paulo project. This ensures its preservation and recognition.
The Praça do Porquinho is a popular spot. People come here to exercise and meet friends. The Porquinho Sculpture adds cultural richness to the park. It reminds us of simpler times. It celebrates a playful part of Brazilian heritage.
The Porquinho Sculpture is more than just art. It embodies a piece of São Paulo’s past. It keeps the memory of a fun game alive. It invites everyone to remember and appreciate Brazilian traditions.
So, next time you visit Ibirapuera Park, stop by the Porquinho Sculpture. Imagine the laughter and excitement of children chasing a greased pig. Appreciate the art that captures this joyful scene. Let the Porquinho Sculpture remind you of the playful spirit within Brazilian culture. It’s a tangible link to a bygone era. It is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life.