Persephone, Bronze sculpture in Holcomb Gardens, Butler University, Indianapolis, US
Persephone is a bronze sculpture standing in the center of an octagonal pool in Holcomb Gardens, holding a lit torch made of bundled twigs in her raised left hand. The figure rests on a limestone base inscribed with the artist's name, manufacturer information, and details about the mythological story.
The statue was created by French sculptor Armand Toussaint in 1840 and originally stood on an estate in Chicago. It arrived at Butler University in 1950 when J.I. Holcomb purchased the work and incorporated it into his newly developed gardens.
The sculpture depicts the Greek goddess Persephone at a defining moment in her mythological story. The figure shapes how visitors experience the gardens and invites reflection on ancient legends.
The artwork is located within a well-maintained garden setting on the Butler University campus that is open to visitors. This location works well for exploring at a leisurely pace while walking through the gardens.
In 1962, Butler University students decorated the classical artwork with contemporary undergarments as part of an advertising campaign. This event remains a memorable moment in campus history, showing how art objects occasionally become the focus of spontaneous student activities.
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