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The Fallen Angel Statue in New York City

The concept of fallen angels, which we usually connect to characters like Lucifer, has been intriguing minds for many years. They are shown as creatures having great beauty and strength who dared to challenge the control of divine power.

This story is found in religious texts, art and literature too. The long-standing interest people have in these stories can be seen on the roads of New York City and in Europe where many fallen angel statues stand tall as well.

These figures, caught in their fall from grace, present us with a glimpse of the intricate concepts related to rebellion, loss and the appealing attractiveness of those who have lost everything.

History of Fallen Angel Statue in New York

Many fallen angel statues can be found in New York City, and each one comes with its own story to tell. Among the most notable is the Angel of the Waters Fountain, also known as Bethesda Angel situated at Central Park.

This statue was designed by William Wetmore Story back in 1868 with an aim to be a memorial for his friend who had passed away. The fallen angel statue came later, put into the fountain to show how the angel stirs up healing waters.

The Statue

The fallen angel statue, normally made of white marble or bronze, usually shows a shape that is forever falling. This form lies down strong and faces upwards towards the sky it used to be familiar with.

The wings can be spread wide or folded near the body; they might possess beautiful feathers too. These features represent both the past heavenly splendor of this fallen angel as well as how heavy their fall has been.

The face can be different, changing from a look with sad pain and desire to one of challenge and determination. The details on the statue like hair that seems to flow or carved muscles as well as presence of snake make it more dramatic.

The time when the statue was made aligns with the Victorian age, a phase of history known for strong interest in the supernatural and exploration into darker subject matters within art and literature.

Symbolism and Interpretation

The fallen angel statue, lying down in a prone position, could represent a decline from grace. Its gaze turning upwards might symbolize desire for its past heavenly state. The expression it holds, whether sad or defiant, adds more depth.

Surrounding elements such as wings that are sometimes folded close to the body can imply loss of celestial power. Different interpretations can be made: the statue might represent results of rebellion, persistent beauty in those who have fallen, or a possibility for redemption.

Famous Fallen Angel Statues

Angel of the Waters Fountain (Bethesda Angel) in Central Park:

Bethesda Angel in Central Park

Image Credit: AlamyThis pretty fountain, made by William Wetmore Story in 1868, has a middle angel figure with wings folded near. Though it does not clearly indicate a fallen angel, the downward pose and water around create a feeling of descent and loss.

The Bethesda Terrace, which was made in the middle of 19th century by Calvert Vaux and Jacob Wrey Mould, carries with it historical importance. The lake nearby and beautiful park scenery add to this calm and thoughtful atmosphere of the place.

“The Fallen Angels” by Salvatore Albano at the Brooklyn Museum:

Salvatore Albano at Brooklyn Museum

Image Credit: Alamy

This marble sculpture from the 19th century shows two angels that are twisted together, their bodies hinting at a fight or loss of goodness. The strong arrangement and complex characteristics of this artwork give it a striking portrayal of fallen angels.

Fuente del Ángel Caído (Fountain of the Fallen Angel) – Madrid, Spain:

Fuente del Ángel Caído

Image Credit: Alamy

This sculpture, made by Ricardo Bellver in 1877, is possibly the most famous one. It shows an angel who has fallen and now lies face-down in a pond at Retiro Park located in Madrid. The dramatic position of this artwork along with its uncommon theme dedicated to Lucifer makes it quite distinct as a landmark.

Fallen Angel Statue in Warriston Cemetery – Edinburgh, Scotland:

Statue in Warriston Cemetery

Image Credit: Alamy

This ghostly character, discovered near the grave markers in Warriston Cemetery, is a damaged and aged angel sculpture. Its sad essence contributes to the cemetery’s ambiance as it symbolizes human fragility and sorrow over death.

Statue of the Fallen Angel – Piazza dei Mirocoli, Pisa, Italy:

Statue of the Fallen Angel

Image Credit: Gettyimages

The 13th century sculpture is seen on the front part of Baptistery in Pisa. The sculpture’s posture, with folded wings and bent head, could represent a fallen angel. This might signify humility or result from sin.

Beyond the Physical Form

The fallen angel statue is described as having a “haunting beauty,” which implies that it causes viewers to experience various emotions. Its grandeur and detailed features might make one feel amazed or curious, while its posture and symbolism can create feelings of sadness or deep thought.

The connection of the fallen angel statue with rebellion, loss and attraction towards what is forbidden brings a special interest, making one think about the complicated nature of good and bad.

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