David of Sassoun 1959

This bronze sculpture by Yervand Kochar depicts David of Sassoun, a heroic figure from the Armenian national epic. We see him on horseback, sword raised, a classic symbol of courage and defiance. This motif of the armed horseman resonates across cultures and epochs. Think of the Roman equestrian statues, symbols of imperial power, or the nomadic warriors of the steppes, their lives intertwined with their steeds. David’s dynamic pose and the spirited horse evoke a sense of movement and impending action that remind us of the Winged Victory of Samothrace, each symbolizing triumph. The image stirs a deep-seated psychological response, a collective memory of struggle and triumph. It’s a powerful force engaging viewers on a subconscious level. This archetype resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings in different historical contexts, reminding us of the enduring power of symbols to transcend time and speak to the human spirit.