Ambrose the Pig

Sculptor: Martin Heron

 

This impressive piece of public art is located outside The Alley Theatre, Strabane, Co. Tyrone. Among the influences for the sculpture are prominent beliefs held in Celtic times when pigs represented fertility and prosperity and were held in great reverence. Celtic markings - similiar to those found at New Grange in Co. Meath- adorn the piece, while a golden texture has been added to underline that this is an object of great value.

 

The pig also has very definite local links - an important pork market was held in the town during the 1950s and there is also Ambrose The Pig, a character which features in the works of Strabane's most famous literary son, Flann O' Brien.

 

It is believed that those rubbing the pig's Celtic twirls will be blessed with some of Flann's celebrated humour. Indeed, Ambrose may be Strabane’s very own answer to the Blarney Stone. Others believe, however that he is a 'wishing pig' and point to the pig's stance as one of staring at the sky, musing and making a wish.

 

(text taken from Strabane District Council website)

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