António Gedeão

Category: Nature > Garden

District: Lisboa > Oeiras > Caxias > Figueirinha

Location

The statue of António Gedeão is located in the municipality of Oeiras, in the Figueirinha area, in Caxias. It is specifically situated within the extensive green area known as Parque dos Poetas, in a space dedicated to figures of Portuguese literature, the Alameda dos Poetas. This setting offers a tranquil and inviting environment for a stroll, with ample and open spaces.

The Honored Poet

This tribute is dedicated to Rómulo de Carvalho (1906-1997), better known by his literary pseudonym, António Gedeão. Born in Lisbon, Rómulo de Carvalho was a notable figure who uniquely managed to reconcile two passions: science, in his training as a Physicist-Chemist, and poetry. Although his poetic work emerged later in his life, it revealed a singular voice, marked by subtle irony and apparent skepticism, which at its core harbored a deep belief in the transformative power of dreams and imagination.

The Sculptural Work

The sculpture of António Gedeão, created by artist Francisco Simões and inaugurated in 2003, is a symbolic representation of the complexity of his figure and work. Sculpted in Lioz marble, the choice of material is a clear allusion to one of his poems, "Poema de Pedra Lioz" (Poem of Lioz Stone). The piece integrates elements that refer to his scientific facet, such as test tubes, which intersect with the figure of the poet. This visual fusion invites reflection on the constant dialectic between life, science, and poetry, fundamental aspects that permeate Gedeão's literary universe.

An Inspiring Legacy

António Gedeão left a lasting impact on Portuguese culture, particularly through poems like "Pedra Filosofal" (Philosopher's Stone). This poem, which was set to music and became a symbol of hope and resistance, encapsulates his vision that "the dream commands life," a powerful idea about the human capacity to dream and propel the world forward. The statue is thus an enduring testament to this inspiring message, inviting those who observe it to reflect on the strength of human creativity and perseverance.