Equestrian statue of Simón Bolívar (Central Park) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Equestrian statue of Simón Bolívar |
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The statue in 2006
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Artist | Sally James Farnham |
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Subject | Simón Bolívar |
Location | New York City, New York, U.S. |
40°45′56.4″N 73°58′32.8″W / 40.765667°N 73.975778°W |
The Simón Bolívar Monument is a special statue in Central Park, New York City. It shows Simón Bolívar riding a horse. This type of statue is called an equestrian statue. Simón Bolívar was a very important leader who helped several South American countries become free from Spanish rule.
This impressive statue is made of bronze. It sits on a tall base made of black granite. The famous artist Sally James Farnham created the bronze sculpture. The base was designed by a company called Clarke and Rapuano.
The statue was finished in 1919. It was officially shown to the public on April 19, 1921. Years later, on April 19, 1951, it was celebrated again. In 1988, the statue was carefully cleaned and fixed as part of a program to protect monuments.
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Who Was Simón Bolívar?
Simón Bolívar was born in 1783 in what is now Venezuela. He is known as "The Liberator" because he played a key role in helping many South American countries gain their independence. These countries include Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. He led many battles and helped create new nations.
The Artist Behind the Statue
The artist, Sally James Farnham, was an American sculptor. She was known for her realistic and strong sculptures, especially those of horses and riders. Creating a large bronze statue like this takes a lot of skill and effort. Artists first make a model, then a mold, and finally pour melted bronze into the mold to create the final sculpture.
Location in Central Park
The Simón Bolívar Monument is located in Central Park, a famous park in Manhattan. Central Park is a large green space in the middle of New York City. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The statue helps people remember important historical figures and events.