The Blog of grindle

Ehekarussell

In the centre of Nürnberg, is a fantastic piece of public sculpture. Formally entitled "Hans-Sachs-Brunnen", but is more commonly referred to as Ehekarussell (The Marriage Carousel).

It was constructed between 1978 and 1981, consisting predominantly of cast bronze figures depicting life in marriage from the early lusting to death.

It was commissioned by the city in 1977 to honour one of its most famous residents, a bloke called Hans Sachs, who lived in the 16th century. He was a satirical poet who often waxed lyrically about love and marriage.

The piece was designed based upon Sachs’ poem “Das bittersüße eheliche Leben” (The Bitter-Sweet Married Life).

Since it was erected 30 years ago, complaints and complaints and complaints have been made by NIMBY's* about the piece of art, ranging from the moans about the nudity and lewdness and the wrong impression it gives about marriage. Seriously? Well wet wipes it is still there, and is not art supposed to create a reaction?

They say that rubbing a statue is good luck.

Not many bits of the sculpture have been rubbed for luck! Ha

The lighter shades are where the bronze has been gilded.

Who says the Germans don't have a sense of humour.

*NIMBY, a British, (I think), acronym...Not In My Back Yard...

A person who objects to the siting of something perceived as unpleasant in the area where they live, especially while raising no such objections to similar developments elsewhere.

Narrenschiffbrunnen

"The Ship of Fools Fountain" A 12 ft tall bronze sculpture, something known as a dry fountain, because it was never finished.

It is supposed to depict a small boat a metaphorical interpretation of the world threatened by death and destruction.

The wording around the rim of the boat condemn destruction, conflict, and violence

At least this behemoth hasn't got any little willies on show.