Reconciliation (Josefina de Vasconcellos sculpture) facts for kids
The Reconciliation sculpture is a famous artwork by Josefina de Vasconcellos. It shows a man and a woman embracing. This sculpture represents peace and coming together after difficult times. It was first made in 1977.
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The Story Behind the Sculpture
This beautiful sculpture was first called Reunion. It shows two people hugging. Josefina de Vasconcellos created it in 1977. She was inspired by a story after World War II. She read about a woman who walked across Europe to find her husband.
De Vasconcellos explained her idea. She said the sculpture was about two people reuniting. But she also hoped it would show nations coming together after fighting.
From Reunion to Reconciliation
In May 1998, the sculpture was given to the University of Bradford. It was a gift to remember Professor Ted Edwards. He was the university's first Vice-Chancellor.
Later, the sculpture needed repairs. It went back to the artist's workshop. The Peace Studies Department at the University of Bradford asked for a new name. They wanted it to be called Reconciliation. This new name better showed its message of peace. The sculpture was shown again on October 26, 1994. This was Josefina de Vasconcellos's 90th birthday.
Where You Can Find the Sculpture
Bronze copies of the Reconciliation sculpture are in important places around the world. These copies help us remember peace and healing.
Famous Locations
In 1995, several copies were placed to mark a special event. It was the 50th anniversary of the end of World War II.
- One copy is in the ruins of Coventry Cathedral in England. This cathedral was badly damaged during the war.
- Another copy is in the Hiroshima Peace Park in Japan. Hiroshima was a city greatly affected by the war.
Other Important Places
- An additional copy can be found in the Stormont Estate in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
- In 1999, another copy was placed in Berlin. It is part of the Berlin Wall memorial. This marked the opening of the rebuilt German Reichstag (parliament building).
Images for kids
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The Coventry International Prize for Peace and Reconciliation is modelled on the statue
See also
In Spanish: Reconciliación (escultura) para niños
