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Notes
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A central black form consisting of three large blocks set on a circular cobbled area. It has a subsidiary white split form and attendant spheres, with the whole work set in lawned court area. A description taken from 'Dictionary of Celtic Mythology' reads: 'Central figure of the 4th branch of the Mabinogi, son of Arianrhod, who conceives him only when Math tests her virginity, and brother of Dylan. Gwydion, Arianrhod's brother, abducts and raises the child, who shows great strength by his first birthday and is able to go to court by himself on his second. Because Gwydion then presents the still unnamed child to his mother, embarrassing her, some commentators have suggested that Gwydion may be the actual father, an incest hidden by late redactors.
An art critic suggested that 'the passion in the piece stems from the mechanics of spatial relationships and scale. There is nothing 'literal' or illustrative' in the placing of the pieces. It is very much a piece of its time.' Another suggestion was that the triangular form represented the eagle carrying away the soul of Lleu Llau Gyffes (the fair one of the sure/steady hand). The theme of sorcery and illusion in the legend appealed to the theatrical interest of the sculptor.
Title
The Legend of Lleu Gyffes
Date
1969
Medium
cement
Measurements
H 320 x W 1220 x D 1829 cm
Accession number
SY23_AEB_S005
Acquisition method
commissioned by University College, Aberystwyth
Work type
Sculpture
Owner
University of Wales Aberystwyth
Custodian
University of Wales Aberystwyth
Work status
extant
Access
at all times
