The Golden Child is perhaps one of the most interesting and famous monuments in Odessa. It has not only overgrown with symbolism, which inspires hope in each of us. Let's talk about this monument.
How the idea of creating a monument was born
Everyone knows that the author of this monument is Ernst Unknown. It was he who had the idea to create something similar. In 1944 he ended up in destroyed Odessa. The years of occupation have left their mark.
The author himself has repeatedly said that the monument was created directly for Odessa. After all, there should be a place in Russia that is shrouded in optimism. He says that the monument itself simulates the emergence of new life and future greatness. He compares the "Golden Child" with the baby Gargantua (I hope you know that this is one of the 2 main characters of the novel "Gargantua and Pantagruel" by the Frenchman Francois Reblet).
The author says that a child emerges from a flower, or hatches from an egg ... In a word, hope for a great, bright future is “born”. This newborn belongs not only to the present, but also to the future.
As for me, the words of the author sounded prophetic. In particular, he pointed out that he wants to hope for just such a meaning, such an interpretation. The hope is that Odessa will nevertheless become a great city. He will flourish and become famous throughout the world. The author's hopes were partially fulfilled. For Odessa they know all over the world. Everyone uses the Odessa language, without exception. Including presidents. But it's worth talking about later.
Co-author of Unknown
The plan was grandiose. Ernst assumed that the monument itself should turn out to be unique, unrepeatable and radiate hope for a brighter future. The author decided that the "Golden Child" should be surrounded by "four winds". These elements and coins were performed by Rev. Mikhail is an outstanding painter and sculptor.
The appearance of the monument
The plaster monument was created in New York. After the composition was completed, it was transported by sea to Odessa. Then they sent me to Kiev. At the Monumentskulptura plant, bronze elements were cast on the plaster monument, and then they were combined into a single whole. Subsequently, the 4-meter Child was brought to Odessa.
The author, Ernst Neizvestny, says that a large sum of money was allocated to him for his work. But inflation has eaten up all the money. Ultimately, it turns out that the author did not receive any remuneration for his work. He said that it would be a gift to his beloved Odessa.
Opening
Ultimately, on May 9, 1995, the monument was unveiled. This ceremony was attended by famous people and politicians. The opening of the monument was headed by Edufrd Hurwitz. Both authors attended the ceremony. The opening itself was timed to coincide with 2 dates. This is the 200th anniversary of Odessa and the 50th anniversary of the Great Victory over fascism.
The Golden Child symbolizes hope for a brighter future. This place has become iconic. All residents and guests of the city come here to be photographed. Some believe that if you take a picture with the Golden Child during pregnancy, then the future baby will be happy, healthy and rich.
We must help to fulfill the hopes of the author Ernst Neizvestny. Odessa and Odessa region must be great and prosperous. Odessa should be spoken for in all corners of the vast planet Earth.