The throne of Nezahualcoyotl

Beneath the tranquil canopy of VanDusen Botanical Garden sits The throne of Nezahualcoyotl. It’s not a real throne, but a striking red steel sculpture. It stands as a vibrant testament to a fascinating historical figure. The Throne of Nezahualcoyotl invites you to delve into the legacy of a poet, architect, and ruler. This sculpture isn’t just metal and paint. It represents Nezahualcoyotl, the 15th-century Aztec lord who ruled Tetzcoco, a city-state near present-day Mexico City. Nezahualcoyotl, whose name means “Fasting Coyote,” was renowned for his wisdom and love of flowers. This explains the sculpture’s placement in these serene botanical gardens. The Mexican government gifted this artwork to the people of Vancouver. It arrived dramatically, lashed to the deck of a Mexican Navy training ship. The dedication ceremony in July 1978 included an honor guard formed by cadets from the same ship. They were in town to commemorate the bicentenary of Captain Cook’s voyage. The sculpture’s creator, Sebastián (Enrique Carbajal), is a Mexican artist known for his large steel and concrete works. He was inspired by Nezahualcoyotl’s passion for flowers and gardens. This led him to depict the ruler’s throne in this fittingly floral setting. The Throne of Nezahualcoyotl has faced challenges over the years. It suffered from rust and required significant restoration. Thanks to dedicated individuals, it was refurbished in 2011. The sculpture even briefly crossed the border to Bellingham for repairs, a story in itself. Now, the vibrant red throne continues to reign in the gardens. It reminds us of the enduring power of art and the fascinating stories it can tell. The throne of Nezahualcoyotl offers a unique blend of history, art, and nature. It’s a reminder of the cultural connections that span continents.