Nestled amidst the vibrant energy of Sydney, the Spine Sculpture stands as a testament to artistic vision. What if I told you that this sculpture is more than just a visually striking landmark? It has connections to the Sydney General Post Office. The Sydney GPO is a treasure trove of stories etched in stone.
As you stand here, take a moment to observe the faces that adorn the GPO building. There are twenty-four faces, each representing a continent, country, or state. These faces, like silent witnesses, have watched the ebb and flow of Sydney’s history. From Europe to Australia, each carving tells a tale.
But the GPO’s sculptures weren’t always met with admiration. In fact, some were deemed crass and caricature-like. Sculptor Tomaso Sani created carvings representing everyday life. However, the establishment found them unworthy of such a grand building. This architectural snobbery ignited a bitter debate. Politicians and the press clashed. There was even a move to remove the carvings.
Yet, despite the controversy, the carvings remained. Today, thousands pass by, perhaps unaware of the battles fought over their existence. Look closely, and you might even spot a rumour come to life. A tiny image on the side of the “Italy” head. Some believe it depicts Garibaldi, the Italian revolutionary hero. Others suggest it’s Barnet, kneeling to write his name. Who do you think it is?
The Sydney GPO itself is one of Colonial Architect James Barnet’s finest creations. Inspired by the Palazzi Communali of Renaissance Italy, Barnet sought to create a public building of grandeur. The carvings around the arches represent the Arts, Science, Agriculture, and Commerce. On the keystones, you’ll find heads of Neptune, Jupiter, Saturn, Mercury, and Minerva.
If you look long and hard enough, you can find carvings of explorers. Captain Cook, La Perouse, Tasman, Columbus, and Vasco da Gamma are all immortalized in stone. Four New South Wales governors are also included. Sir John Young, the Earl of Belmore, Sir Hercules Robinson, and Lord Loftus.
Just as the Spine Sculpture invites contemplation, the Sydney GPO encourages us to delve deeper into Sydney’s past. The Spine Sculpture might not be directly related to the GPO, but it shares a common thread. Both stand as public art. Both provoke thought and spark conversation. As you continue your exploration of Sydney, remember that every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered.