Da Tung and Xi'an Bao Bao, Bronze sculpture in North Park Blocks, Portland, US
Da Tung and Xi'an Bao Bao is a bronze sculpture depicting two elephants stacked vertically, with the smaller one resting on top of the larger. The cast work occupies a prominent position in the North Park Blocks with elaborate surface details throughout.
The sculpture draws inspiration from an ancient wine vessel originating from the Shang dynasty, created between 1200 and 1100 BC. This historic design was enlarged significantly and reinterpreted as a modern bronze work for the Portland public realm.
The sculpture displays intricate patterns including cloud motifs and mythological creatures rooted in Chinese artistic traditions, representing intergenerational bonds. These design elements reflect how Eastern aesthetics are woven into the public spaces of downtown Portland.
The sculpture is located between West Burnside and Northwest Couch streets in an accessible park near downtown. A children's playground nearby makes it easy to include in a walking tour of the city center.
The work was gifted to Portland by someone who recovered from a serious illness while receiving care in the city. This backstory reveals how public sculptures can carry deep personal bonds to the communities that embrace them.
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