Historical information

The well known sculpture of English playwright William Shakespeare takes an elaborate bow before the Civic Hall, a performance and community center for Ballarat. The unique abstract and elongated mannerist style used in this cast bronze sculpture hints at the art deco style of the Hall behind. The sculptor, Andor Mészáros, was from Budapest but created much of his work in Melbourne. He also created works for Canterbury Cathedral in the UK and several carved stone sculptures for Sydney Hospital. The artwork was commissioned in 1959 through a widely publicised competition and installed in 1960. In addition to making sculptures, Mészáros was also renown as a creator of medallions. In 1951 he received 'the highest award' at the International Medallion Exhibition, Madrid and in 1964 he won the 'purchase prize' at the International Medallion Competition, Arezzo, Italy.

From 1970 Mészáros worked with his younger son Michael, also a sculptor. In 2002, the City of Ballarat granted permission for
Michael Mészáros to make a cast of the Ballarat Shakespeare artwork to create replica installed in Budapest. The Budapest installation commemorates Shakespeare's connection to the City and the achievements of Andor Mészáros.

The artwork was unveiled by Mayor Arthur W. Nicholson. The statue was presented by L.F. North, general Manager of the Fidelity Trustee Company Limited, representing the late H.P. Stevens as one of the benefactors whose generosity enabled the Statue to be erected.

Significance

The artwork is of aesthetic significance to the people of Ballarat

Physical description

Large bronze statue of William Shakespeare mounted on a stone plinth

Inscriptions & markings

William Shakespeare 1564-1616. Erected by benefactions from Harry Pearson Stevens who settled here 1855 and other Citizens unveiled by Arthur W. Nicholson J.P. Mayor.17.11.1960