Näckens polska, Bronze sculpture at Uppsala Central Station, Sweden
Näckens polska is a six-meter-high bronze fountain sculpture featuring a nude figure playing a golden violin, accompanied by a female form and dancing figures around the composition. Three large sunflowers form part of the structure, with the central flower supporting a dancing couple at its peak.
The sculpture was created by Swedish artist Bror Hjorth in 1967 as a bold statement for public art in Sweden. Its installation met initial resistance due to the depiction of nudity, which was controversial during that period.
The sculpture depicts Näcken, a water spirit from Nordic mythology known for playing music that enchants and draws people toward water. The dancing figures surrounding the central musician bring this legendary being to life in a way visitors can see and understand.
The sculpture stands in the square outside Uppsala's main railway station and is easily accessible on foot from the terminal. It serves as a natural gathering point visible from various angles throughout the day.
Artist Bror Hjorth combined natural elements with human figures in an experimental way that was ahead of its time artistically. The mix of bronze, golden details, and flowering forms created a piece that blurs the line between classical sculpture and nature.
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