statuette
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Those of you who have visited my home library probably realize that I have developed somewhat of a penchant for art that is from the "Soviet Realism" tradition (or along that general line).  Over the course of past few years, I have accumulated a small collection of Soviet-themed statuettes, postcards and posters.  Most of these acquisitions came to me by way of eBay.  My most current eBay find is a replica of the Soviet monument known as “Mother Russia” or “Mother Motherland is Calling.” I have been searching for replica of this monument for some time and this acquisition is both a new favorite of mine and a great addition to my fledgeling collection.  The statuette is solid iron and it stands about 10 inches high.  It’s lacking in detail in some areas, but key points such as the figure’s pose and facial expression are surprisingly accurate.

actual monumentThe real monument (known as “Rodina Mat' Zovyot!” or simply “Rodina Mat” in Russian) was erected in 1967 to commemorate the Soviet victory at Stalingrad.  Although many things have changed since the fierce battle there (among them the name “Stalingrad”—now called "Volgograd," as well as the dissolution of the USSR itself), Rodina Mat still stands today and it it remains an enduring symbol of national pride and supreme sacrifice.  The monument stands 160 feet high and weighs over 1,000 tons.  The sword held aloft by Rodina Mat  is over 70 feet long.  She is truly a massive and somber tribute to an epic struggle.


Further Reading
Mother Motherland Wikipedia article
Stalingrad Revisited by Martin Sieff
Statuesque beauty article about Rodina Mat model Valentina Izotova
Volgograd Answers.com article