Genghis Khan by Dashi Namdakov at Marble Arch

16 Apr 2012

Halcyon Gallery has brought the nomadic spirit to London in the form of Dashi Namdakov’s magisterial bronze sculpture, Genghis Khan. The 5 ft high statue was unveiled on Saturday 14th April to a large crowd at Marble Arch, in the heart of London’s West end. 

Namdakov’s triumphant sculpture depicts Genghis Khan wearing medieval Mongolian armour, with arms outstretched, lost in deep contemplation. The work showcases the artist’s incredible precision and attention to detail through the
golden plaques on the livery, scenes of hunting beasts shown in relief and the special ‘antique’ patina of the plaited hair. The overall result is a powerful image of the ancient hero of the Mongols who has become part of our collective global civilization.

Namdakov was inspired by the historic Buryat Buddhist cultures which are part of his own ancestral heritage. With Genghis Khan, the artist has created an equestrian statue of an epic character which embodies the very essence of nomadism and brings the culture of the ancient Mongols to the London public.

Other sculptures within Halcyon Gallery’s international public art programme can be found on nearby Park Lane where passers-by can see Dale Chihuly’s Glass Chandelier and Hyde Park where Isis, a sculpture by Simon Gudgeon resides by the Serpentine as well as Gudgeon’s Search for Enlightenment at Millbank.

The installation of Genghis Khan heralds the forthcoming major exhibition of Dashi Namdakov’s work from the past 12 years at Halcyon Gallery, London. The exhibition opens on 9 May and offers visitors the opportunity to view 45 sculptures and drawings. The collection showcases the artist’s highly original style and imagery which combines the spiritual traditions of the past with present day realities: the characters that Namdokov creates are simultaneously fantastical and strikingly authentic.

See the unveiling video here:

Coverage:

BBC News Online: Genghis Khan Sculpture Unveilied in London

For all press enquiries, contact Niki Gifford