In a heartfelt tribute to his wife, Dr. Priscilla Chan, Mark Zuckerberg has commissioned a bespoke statue crafted by renowned sculptor Daniel Arsham. The striking piece, which honors Chan’s significant role in his life, has been installed in the couple’s backyard, marking a personal and meaningful gesture.
Mark Zuckerberg has taken his admiration for the Roman Empire to new heights by resurrecting an ancient practice of putting up statues in memory and honor done to influential women and wives. It is a tradition begun by Emperor Octavian, Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus, who, from 27 BC to 14 AD, commissioned statues of his sister Octavia and his wife Livia, founding a really long history of paying respect and recognition to women in great esteem.
The statue, designed by Arsham, reflects Zuckerberg’s deep admiration and respect for Chan, who has been a steadfast presence in his life since their college days at Harvard. The installation in their private outdoor space underscores the personal nature of this tribute, celebrating Chan’s contributions and the enduring partnership they share.
Zuckerberg’s decision to showcase the statue in their backyard rather than a public space adds a layer of intimacy to the gesture. It highlights the importance of recognizing and valuing the significant people in our lives in our own unique ways.
Zuckerberg’s tribute, shared on Instagram, showcases the statue and reflects his deep appreciation for Chan, who has been a central figure in his life since their college days. In his Instagram post, Zuckerberg expressed his sentiment: “If I had the means, I would 100% build a statue of my wife as a tribute. My wife hates attention and might attempt to murder me if I built a statue of her but she’s the bedrock that keeps our household together and deserves all of the praise in the world.
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