Player of backgammon, Bronze bench monument in Yerevan, Armenia
The Player of Backgammon is a bronze sculpture in Yerevan that depicts a person seated at a table, absorbed in playing the ancient game with meticulous focus. The work also serves as a functioning bench that invites visitors to sit and rest in the public space.
The sculpture was created in 2007 through a collaboration between artist Eduard Shakhikyan and students from the Yerevan State Institute of Theatre and Cinema. This partnership brought together established artistic vision with the creative energy of emerging artists.
The monument represents backgammon culture in Yerevan, a game deeply woven into the social life of the city where people gather outdoors during warm months. The figure captures the essence of this pastime that has long connected neighbors and friends across generations.
The monument is located in a public area of Yerevan and is freely accessible at any time, as it stands in an open community space. Visitors can view the sculpture from different angles or sit on it to observe the surroundings and rest their feet.
The sculpture merges art with everyday function by doubling as both a work of creative expression and an actual bench where people rest while walking through the city. This dual purpose makes it blend seamlessly into daily life rather than standing apart as a typical monument.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
