The original Porcellino, or little pig, sits on the south side of the Straw Market in Florence, Italy. For generations his nose has been affectionately rubbed to bring good luck, so that today his snout is finely burnished.
About 1620 Pietro Tacca cast the "little pig" in bronze from the marble boar "Cinghiale", now displayed at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence. He completely changed the simple base of the earlier statue by adding a small pool surrounded by plants, frogs, snakes and a turtle. (It is also likely that Tacca restored the Cinghiale itself after fire partially destroyed the Uffizi)
Authorities have suggested that the boar was part of a larger group representing a hunting scene. The animal's unique position indicates neither repose nor attack, rather the wild beast awakened suddenly by the sound of the hunt.
This rare copy of Porcellino was acquired by Mr. And Mrs. Ross on a trip to Florence. He is called 'TACCA' in honour of the artist who created him, and he is dedicated to all the children and animals who visit The Butchart Gardens.
Comments 0 comments