Viktor Jansson:
Convolvulus, 1931
Kaisaniemi Park, Kaisaniemi

Convolvulus

Viktor Jansson’s Convolvulus was erected in 1931 to decorate Kaisaniemi Park. The maiden was modelled after artist's own daughter, Tove Jansson. Its title ”the Convolvulus” refers to ’field bindweed, a thread of life’, symbolising the age-old bond between nature and femininity. The woman character raises her hand partly for protection, but also at the same time gesturing a sign of blessing.

This sculpture is considered to represent the nordic metaphor for the arrival of Spring. In the ancient mythology the nymphs have traditionally been associated as an inspiration for fountain and park statues. Jansson’s work belongs to the mythological lineage of nature’s goddesses. They were often depicted nude by the male sculptors.