Statues

Most cities have some interesting artwork and statues around the streets. I came across this boar and wondered what the story was behind it. It caught my attention because one of my daughters and I have been watching all the Harry Potter movies in preparation for my panel discussion later this summer regarding villains. I knew we had the pig statue and never thought much of it until I recognized it from one of the movies.

No, the city didn’t get the statue because Hogwarts had one. It was designed to raise an awareness of the Arts. Guess it worked on my because I did a little research on it. The boar is called Porcellino and was originally cast in the early 1600’s by an Italian Barogue master. A passerby can place a coin in the gaping jaws of the boar and rub it’s snout for luck or in hopes of a trip to Italy.

Next time you’re out an about, look around your city. There are probably fascinating stories waiting to be told or researched. Gaze at the architecture, or the church steeples, even park benches often have names on them with tales to be told. Most people walk by and never give a second thought to the artwork on display. Take a moment to appreciate it and let your mind be entertained with their stories.

Here is a picture I took of Porcellino.