Dimitris Papachristos
Utopian Cap (2021), wood, 15 x 15 x 16.5 cm
Based on the "Cap of liberty" which it’s been used as a symbol by the revolutionaries, the present sculpture stands as a testimony to the invincible power of the human condition and the destiny of man to be ruled by his physical and mental desires against the high ideals he stands for. The Phrygian hat or ‘’Hat of liberty’’ bears its symbolism from its use during the Roman Empire by the liberated slaves, who "showed" in this way their new social status. During the French Revolution, the hat was worn again to symbolize liberty and the community spirit, as was the case in America during the revolution, while many other Latin American countries use the red Phrygian hat either as a coat of arms or as a symbol in their flag. Although social justice, equality and freedom are high ideals and are the motivations that often characterize revolutions sacred, human nature itself with its instinctive manifestations can turn the protagonists of these struggles into fallen heroes defeated by their own weaknesses. The period of Terrorism during the French Revolution best sums up this oxymoron, as those considered to have undermined the revolution and its principles were driven to death by beheading, creating a climate of fear and insecurity similar to any other with what the revolution itself originally advocated. Thus, freedom and social justice disappeared under coercion, with the same ease that the image of a cap can be transformed into human excrement. The joint rescue committee who was responsible for the convictions quickly met the same end, as Robespierre who was in charge, was beheaded along with all his close associates.