Melania Trump statue sawed off at ankles and stolen from Slovenian hometown
A bronze statue of Melania Trump was recently stolen in her native Slovenia, marking the second time a statue of the first lady has been targeted. The original wooden statue, placed near her hometown of Sevnica in 2020, was replaced by the bronze statue after being damaged in an arson attack following the end of President Donald Trump’s first term.
Both statues were a collaboration between artist Brad Downey from Kentucky and local craftsman Ales “Maxi” Zupevc. The original wooden statue depicted Melania Trump in a pale blue dress, reminiscent of the outfit she wore at her husband’s 2016 inauguration.
The new bronze statue was created to be more durable and was placed on the same stump as the original. However, it was recently sawed off at the ankles and stolen. Slovenian police are currently investigating the theft and vandalism.
Franja Kranjc, a worker at a local bakery, expressed that the rustic statue was not well-liked and that its removal is acceptable. Zupevc, who carved the original statue with a chainsaw, shared that he was inspired to create the design as both he and Melania Trump were born in the same hospital.
A plaque next to the statue reads, “dedicated to the eternal memory of a monument to Melania which stood at this location.” Melania Trump, born Melanija Knavs in Novo Mesto in 1970, grew up in Sevnica during Slovenia’s time as part of Communist-ruled Yugoslavia. Slovenia is now a member of the European Union and NATO.
The theft of the bronze statue has sparked controversy and disappointment in the local community. Despite differing opinions on the statue, the incident has led to discussions about art, politics, and the legacy of Melania Trump. The investigation into the theft is ongoing, and authorities are working to determine who is responsible.
Overall, the incident has raised questions about the role of public art and the impact it can have on communities. The statue of Melania Trump, while controversial, served as a symbol of the first lady’s connection to her hometown and sparked conversations about her identity and legacy.
