Mexican Ambassador Unveils Sculpture in Trinity

Posted on: 13 September 2004

The Ambassador of Mexico to Ireland, Dr. Agustin Basave today (Monday 13 September) attended his last official engagement in Ireland when he officially unveiled a sculpture donated by the Mexican artist, Sebastian, to Trinity College Dublin. The sculpture, entitled Chac Mool, represents the Mayan reclining God of Rain, who was also considered to be the ‘messenger of the gods’ by the ancient Mayan civilisation. Acting as a focal point at the East end of the College campus, home to the College’s science buildings, the sculpture (1.2 x 3.2 metres) sits between the Sami Nasr Institute for Advanced Materials and the newly constructed INS Building. The sculpture is overlooked by the railway viaduct, making it one of the College’s most public pieces of art. It will be seen daily by thousands of rail commuters in addition to being accessible to Trinity’s staff and students. “This is a most generous gift and I am extremely grateful to Sebastian and the Mexican Ambassador. The Chac Mool sculpture will join treasured sculptures by international artists on campus such as Henry Moore, Pomodoro and Calder, ” stated the Provost of Trinity College, Dr. John Hegarty. “We are honoured that the Ambassador is in Trinity for his last public engagement before he returns to Mexico. During his time in Ireland he has undoubtedly enriched the cultural life of Ireland. Hiberno-Mexican relationships have never been better. This sculpture donation reinforces the College’s special links with Mexico. Two years ago, President Vincente Fox Quesada gave a public lecture in the College and last year the annual TCD Mexican Lecture was established”, the Provost continued. The ceremony was attended by members of the Mexican Diplomatic and Consular Corp, and representatives of the academic, cultural and artistic sectors of Ireland.