Nestled in the heart of New York City's famed Central Park, you’ll discover a whimsical bronze statue – the Alice in Wonderland statue. A larger-than-life tribute to Lewis Carroll's beloved literary character, Alice, this magical monument has become an iconic destination, not just for literary enthusiasts, but for visitors of all ages. Remarkably, the statue encourages interactivity; touched by countless hands and climbed upon by adventurous children, it has delightfully transcended its solemn bronze to become a warm, lively part of the park. You'll find the statue situated atop a knoll near the Conservatory Water, just north of the East 74th Street entrance.
Commissioned in 1959 by philanthropist George Delacorte in memory of his wife Margarita, the Alice in Wonderland Statue was designed and crafted by the world-renowned Spanish sculptor José de Creeft. The public space that accommodates this dreamlike statue spans almost 1.5 acres. This larger-than-life sculpture, standing eleven feet tall, whimsically incorporates figures from the famous story of Alice in Wonderland including Alice herself, The Mad Hatter, The White Rabbit, and the Dormouse.
The highlight of this enchanting installation is Alice herself, perched atop a giant mushroom while presiding over a tea party with her fantastical cohorts. She reaches for the Mad Hatter’s hat, a hint towards the narrative’s memorable scene. The White Rabbit, timepiece in paw, appears to be in perpetual movement, evoking the urgency from Carroll's narrative. The various characters depicted in the statue exhibit distinctive identities, each character inviting parkgoers into the fictional world of Alice’s adventures.
Around the base, one can discover delightful details such as the chess pieces which signify the second Alice book 'Through the Looking Glass' and the curiously carved Cheshire Cat’s face. For many, a standout detail is the inscription on one side of the mushroom, a set of verses from "The Jabberwocky" - one of Lewis Carroll's poems. Lastly, the statue’s location near the Conservatory Water - better known as the Model Boat Pond - complements the narrative landscape of Alice's adventures. Children excitedly sail model boats on this pond, providing a parallel to Lewis Carroll's vivid imagination and Victorian era charm.
In conclusion, the Alice in Wonderland statue is a captivating treasure within Central Park, a veritable playground for fans of Lewis Carroll’s work, and a radiant symbol of New York City’s embrace of art, culture, and imagination. Its historical significance, its interactivity, and its picturesque location make it a must-visit point of interest for anyone exploring Central Park’s well-trodden trails. Here, you’re not just observing a statue, but stepping into a radiant narrative world where fantasy mingles with reality, where childhood lasts forever, and where every visitor – young or old – can experience a touch of Wonderland’s magic.
