Worker and Kolkhoz Woman

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Worker and Kolkhoz Woman(Russian: Рабо́чий и колхо́зница) is a colossal sculpture depicting two figures triumphantly holding aloft a sickle and a hammer, their arms raised in unison over their heads. The magnificent work of art stands at an impressive 24.5 meters (78 feet) high, crafted from gleaming stainless steel by the renowned artist Vera Mukhina specifically for the 1937 World's Fair in Paris. After its initial debut, the sculpture was relocated to Moscow, where it continues to captivate audiences with its powerful symbolism. The monumental composition is an outstanding example of socialist realism and Art Deco styles, masterfully blending classic elements with modern flair. The worker proudly grasps a hammer, while the kolkhoz woman holds aloft a sickle, forming the iconic hammer and sickle symbol that has come to represent the ideals of socialism. Mukhina's masterpiece was originally designed to crown the Soviet pavilion at the World's Fair, where it faced off against the German pavilion across the main pedestrian boulevard at the Trocadéro on the north bank of the Seine. Inspired by her study of classical works such as Harmodius and Aristogeiton, the Victory of Samothrace, and La Marseillaise, Mukhina aimed to create a monumental composition that would convey socialist realist confidence and pride. The sculpture's symbolism extends beyond its artistic value, as the two figures striding from West to East reflect the layout of the pavilion. As determined by the organizers, this deliberate placement was not lost on the spectators, who were able to appreciate the powerful message behind Mukhina's work. In an interview, Mukhina revealed that her sculpture was intended to be an integral part of the overall structure, continuing the idea inherent in the building itself. After its debut at the World's Fair, however, the Rabochiy i Kolkhoznitsa was relocated to Moscow, where it was placed just outside the All-Russia Exhibition Centre. In 1941, Mukhina's masterpiece earned her one of the inaugural Stalin Prizes, a testament to the sculpture's enduring impact and significance. In 2003, the Rabochiy i Kolkhoznitsa underwent restoration in preparation for Expo 2010, with plans to return it to its original location by 2005. Unfortunately, due to financial constraints and the World's Fair not being awarded to Moscow but rather Shanghai, the reinstallation process was delayed. The sculpture finally returned to VDNKh on November 28, 2009, where it now stands atop a new pavilion, increasing its total height from 34.5 meters to an impressive 60 meters. The restored monument was unveiled on December 4, 2009, accompanied by a spectacular fireworks display. Today, the Worker and Kolkhoz Woman remains an iconic symbol of socialist realism and Art Deco styles, continuing to inspire generations with its powerful message and stunning design.