Title of the sculpture: Aristotelis Valaoritis

Location: National Garden

Construction: 1926

Material: Marble

Sculptor: Fokion Rok

Description: Bust of white marble on a marble base

A few words about the Poet: The poet Aristotelis Valaoritis (1824 - 1879) is a special case within the literary current of the Ionian school. He is more oriented towards folk song and French Romanticism. His themes are more concerned with the Revolution and the pre-revolutionary period, the struggles of the Armatoloi, Kleftes and the people of Souli, since he wanted to contribute to the strengthening of the patriotic feeling and national self-awareness. He uses the language of folk songs but in a romantic, often pompous style. In 1879, the year of his death, he would create Foteinos, his last and most mature work, which unfortunately he did not have the chance to complete.

A few words about the Sculptor: The sculptor, cartoonist and columnist Fokion Rok (1891 - 1945) was appointed in 1930 as a curator of the Sculpture Department of the Athens School of Fine Arts, where he taught Plastic Arts. His most important and best known work is the Monument to the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament (1932).

Sources:
Politis, L. (2017). History of Modern Greek Literature. Athens: M.I.E.T. (NBG Cultural Foundation) p.164-165
Antonopoulou, Z. (2003). The sculptures of Athens: Open Air Sculpture 1834 - 2004. Athens: Potamos.