Prominent Georgian sculptor Merab Berdzenishvili dies

A prominent Georgian sculptor, who created many legendary sculptures and monuments that still stand in capital Tbilisi and across the country, has died.

Sculptor, painter and graphic designer Merab Berdzenishvili passed away on Saturday. He was 87 years old.

Berdzenishvili was renowned in the sculpting world for his dedication to reflecting reality in his sculptures.

He created some impressive works that still stand in Georgia's capital including Muse, a bronze sculpture in front of Tbilisi Concert Hall; Kidevats Daizrdebian (They will be raised) near Marneuli in southern Georgia; Giorgi Saakadze monument at Saakadze Square in Tbilisi; The project of Vakhtang Gorgasali monument near Metekhi church in Tbilisi; Monuments of famous Georgian poets and writers including Shota Rustaveli and Davit Guramishvili.

Kidevats Daizrdebian by Merab Berdzenishvili. Photo by I. Goliadze.

Giorgi Saakadze, monument by Merab Berdzenishvili. 

The legacy Merab Berdzenishvili left us is the wealth of our country,” said Georgia’s Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili when he heard about the death of the legendary sculptor.

The monumental sculptures created by him is the best reflection of our multi-century history, the nature of a Georgian man and our main values.”

The Prime Minister said all funeral expenses would be covered by the state.

During his lifetime Berdzenishvili was awarded almost all of the most prestigious Georgian sculpture prizes.