Tshwane metro and the FAK join hands in restoring Kruger Statue panels
Criminals were stopped in their tracks trying to make off with a frieze panel from the pedestal of the Kruger statue on Church Square. The Tshwane metro and the FAK are now going to initiate a panel restoration project.
The Tshwane metro council has approached the Federation of Afrikaans Culture organisations (FAK) to help coordinate a restoration project after a bronze frieze panel was stolen on July 18 from the Paul Kruger Statue on Church Square.
The culprits were caught red-handed and police could prevent the frieze panel from becoming scrap metal.
The council’s heritage specialist James Boale said they were shocked when they heard about the theft.
FAK cultural organiser Barry Müller said the institution was relieved that the police could act swiftly.
“We are happy this valuable heritage treasure could be saved,” said Müller.
According to an eyewitness, the criminals jumped over the fence around the statue in an attempt to steal the frieze panel.
The Pretoria central police office confirmed to the FAK that the panel is being kept in a safe for safekeeping.
There are four copper frieze panels around the statue, which were created by the famous sculptor Anton van Wouw, as was the statue itself.
The four panels depict significant events from Kruger’s life.
The stolen panel is a representation of Kruger’s character, illustrating his heroism and deep compassion.
The scene shows Kruger walking towards the Makapans Cave, the body of Commandant Piet Potgieter slung over his shoulder.
The restoration date is yet to be announced.
“The FAK is strongly opposed to the destruction, theft and vandalism of heritage property. The heritage situation overall in South Africa is a huge crisis, but the swift action of the police in this instance creates a spark of hope,” Müller said.
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