Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads

Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads is a series of sculptures by the Chinese artist Ai Weiwei. Created in 2010, the work consists of 12 bronze heads representing the animals of the Chinese zodiac. The sculptures are inspired by the water clock-fountain at the Yuanmingyuan, the Old Summer Palace, near Beijing, which was looted by British and French troops in 1860 during the Second Opium War. Ai Weiwei's work is both a homage to the craftsmanship of the original pieces and a commentary on the themes of looting and repatriation of cultural artifacts.

Background

The original zodiac heads were part of a water clock-fountain in the Haiyantang area of the Yuanmingyuan Garden, designed in the 18th century by the Italian Jesuit Giuseppe Castiglione for the Qianlong Emperor of the Qing dynasty. The heads were looted during the destruction of the palace in 1860, and only seven of the original twelve have been found. Ai Weiwei's Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads revisits this historical event, exploring the implications of cultural heritage and its loss.

Description

The Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads series includes 12 bronze sculptures, each depicting a head from the Chinese zodiac: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. Each head is mounted on a bronze stem, making them appear as if they are rising from water, similar to the original fountain design. The sculptures are displayed in two sets: one is the larger, outdoor series intended for public display in gardens or parks, and the other is a smaller, indoor version.

Exhibitions

Since its creation, Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads has been exhibited globally, traveling to cities such as London, New York, Los Angeles, and Paris. The exhibitions not only showcase Ai Weiwei's craftsmanship and creativity but also serve as platforms for discussions on cultural heritage, national identity, and the politics of art repatriation.

Themes and Interpretations

Ai Weiwei's Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads is rich in thematic content, touching on issues of historical memory, cultural vandalism, and the complex relationships between East and West. By recreating the zodiac heads, Ai Weiwei raises questions about authenticity, ownership, and the meaning of reproducing artifacts that have been lost or stolen. The work is a powerful statement on the global circulation of cultural treasures and the role of art in international diplomacy.

Reception

The reception of Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads has been largely positive, with critics and the public alike praising Ai Weiwei's ability to blend historical narrative with contemporary concerns. The work has been seen as a successful fusion of art and activism, using the platform of public sculpture to engage with broader social and political issues.

Legacy

Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads has contributed significantly to the discourse around cultural heritage and repatriation. It has also cemented Ai Weiwei's reputation as one of the most provocative and influential contemporary artists, known for his willingness to challenge authority and advocate for freedom of expression. The series continues to inspire dialogue and debate wherever it is shown, reflecting Ai Weiwei's ongoing commitment to using art as a means of social commentary.