Cairo University Memorial Statue: A historical, artistic and scientific study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Professor of Metals Conservation Conservation Department Faculty of Archaeology - Cairo University (EGYPT)

2 Associate Professor of Metals Conservation Conservation Department Faculty of Archaeology - Cairo University (EGYPT)

3 Professor of Physical Chemistry Faculty of Archaeology - Cairo University (EGYPT)

4 Professor of Islamic Archaeology Department Faculty of Archaeology - Cairo University (EGYPT)

Abstract

This research deals with the historical and artistic study, in addition to the preservation state of the Cairo University Memorial statue dedicated to the martyr students who have lost their lives in protests and demonstrations during the 30ˊs and 40ˊs of the last century. The memorial was designed and executed by the sculptor Fathi Mahmoud while the granite pedestal was designed by Fahmi Moemen in 1953.  It is located within the campus of Cairo University. It includes a bronze statue and two bronze panels on both sides of the pink granite pedestal. The story of this monument revolves around the opposition of university students against the British occupation and their rejection of disgraceful interference in Egyptian affairs. The monument represents Egypt pride with its sons in the form of a bronze statue of a woman clad in classical robes, and a crown with a Pharaonic style on her head, holding a laurel wreath in her right hand as a symbol of victory. It also represents the Mother University "Cairo University", the first modern University in Egypt, and behind it is a huge book made of pink granite representing the martyrs' record. On the sides of the granite base, there are two bronze panels carried out in high-relief representing the university studentsˊ revolution against colonialism, and their struggle for getting independence and freedom. The statue and side panels are unsheltered from weathering and air pollution. It is in a bad state of preservation, as it is covered with non-uniform dull black and green corrosion products which disfigure its appearance. The statue is covered with water streaks and dirt. Corrosion of bronze leads not only to discoloration of the original surface but also to pitting of the bronze surface.
          Through this study, we try to clarify the importance of art in recording important historical facts in all its details, in addition to the artistic and technical values that are handed down by generations, as well as investigating the current state of preservation of that monument.

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Main Subjects

References

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