SEVNICA, SLOVENIA – A bronze statue of former U.S. First Lady Melania Trump has disappeared from its location near her hometown of Sevnica, Slovenia, prompting a police investigation. The statue, which had been a source of local and international intrigue since its installation, was reportedly sawed off at the ankles and removed.
The Slovenian police have confirmed they are investigating the disappearance, which was reported on Tuesday. Police spokeswoman Alenka Drenik Rangus stated that authorities are working to identify and apprehend those responsible for the removal of the statue.
This is not the first time a statue of Melania Trump has been the target of vandalism in Sevnica. In 2020, a wooden statue of her was set on fire, leading to the installation of the bronze replica. The statues, commissioned by American artist Brad Downey, have generated mixed reactions from locals and observers, with some criticizing their artistic merit and others viewing them as a symbol of the town’s connection to the former First Lady.
Local reactions to the statue’s disappearance have been varied. Some residents have expressed indifference, with one bakery worker stating that “no one was really proud of this statue.” Others have expressed bewilderment at the incident.
Key points of the event:
- Disappearance:
- The bronze statue was reportedly sawed off at the ankles and removed.
- Police Investigation:
- Slovenian police have confirmed they are investigating the theft.
- Previous Vandalism:
- The bronze statue replaced a wooden statue that was set on fire in 2020.
- Local Reactions:
- Local reactions are mixed, with some expressing indifference and others bewilderment.
- Artistic context:
- The statues were commissioned by American artist Brad Downey, and have been a source of artistic and political discussion.
The disappearance of the statue has reignited discussions about the artwork’s place in the town and the complex relationship between Sevnica and its most famous former resident. The police investigation is ongoing, and the motives behind the statue’s removal remain unclear.