The Oscar Wilde Memorial Sculpture

Dublin is home to an endless number of statues honoring figures who forever marked the city’s history, but the one before you is particularly striking. This is Oscar Wilde, his grand statue reflecting the inspiring career he built for himself. He is an author deeply connected to Dublin, for he was born here, not far from Merrion Square Park. This young Dubliner came from a wealthy family and developed a passion for literature at a very young age. He then became a writer with a sharp wit and flamboyant style, known for his brilliant and provocative works—such as The Picture of Dorian Gray, which caused controversy once published. But at the time, his private life was just as controversial as his professional life. His passionate relationship with Lord Alfred Douglas led to a trial for “gross indecency” in 1895, resulting in a two-year sentence of hard labour. Once he was released, Oscar Wilde exiled himself in Paris, where he died in poverty in 1900. His tomb at Père Lachaise Cemetery remains one of the most visited in this famous burial ground. Unveiled in 1997, the sculpture before you was made by Danny Osborne. The artist chose to depict Wilde in a relaxed pose all while having a mysterious smile on his lips—a faithful representation of the complexity of his character: irreverent, eccentric, and irresistibly charming. This tribute, created in great detail and adorned with semi-precious stones, reflects the vibrant personality of this dandy, who lived only by refinement and elegance. Depending on where you stand, the statue appears either slightly melancholic or slightly amused—a brilliant way to illustrate the dual nature of the author. I’ll leave you with a quote from the author, engraved on the plaque: “We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars”.