In honour of the 200th birthday of Karl Marx, in 2015 the People’s Republic of China offered the city of his birth the gift of a Karl Marx sculpture as a symbol of friendship and appreciation. The square near Karl Marx House was considered as the location for the sculpture but the renowned Chinese artist and academic professor, Wu Weishan, preferred Simeonstiftplatz after an on-site visit at the beginning of 2016.
After the city council had officially decided to accept the gift following long discussions, only its size had to be negotiated. The originally planned height of 6.3 metres including pedestal was reduced to 5.5 metres. In view of the distribution of costs, the People’s Republic of China agreed to finance the pedestal including steps to sit on, as well as the costs of the statue itself and its transportation to Trier. The City of Trier’s remaining costs covering the removal of the soil, the building of the foundations, paving work and lighting came to around 39000 euros.
“I am portraying Marx in all his greatness with a determined look in his eyes”, said the artist. “His long hair and his long coat embody his wisdom. Karl Marx’s thoughts are contemplating the world. He is convinced that everything is in motion and that everything is changing. Marx is looking ahead and is quietly moving onwards.”
The bronze sculpture is to be revealed in a ceremony on 5th May 2018 on Karl Marx’s birthday at Simeonstiftplatz.
