40x19x24 cm, terracotta
A gift of Oleksandr Mykhaliuk and Raisa Maievska, 2013
The sculptor was inspired by Ukrainian history, its heroes, and the romance of the Cossacks. Cossacks – Ukrainian knights, appeared in the artist’s work for many years. While still in the DP (Displaced Persons) camp, one of the first sculptures he created was the figure of a Cossack. In the future, he made a series of works inspired by Cossack themes: horse riders rushing into battle, kobzars and bandurists, pensive or smiling soldiers with sabres, pipes and pistols confidently and proudly froze in the sculpture, telling the viewer Ukrainian history.
In the artwork “Sichovyk,” the sculptor depicted a dignified Cossack who sits proudly, leaning on his sabre. There is a barely noticeable smile on his face. He is not tense nor preparing for battle. Still, his figure embodies readiness to fight at any moment, symbolised by the sabre at the centre of the composition. The sculpture is perceived as a symbol of freedom and a rich history of Ukraine’s victories in the past, which served as a source of inspiration for the sculptor.