In Cork, Ireland, a city councillor is proposing the installation of a public statue commemorating a unique figure – a mosquito. This particular mosquito is believed by some in Cork to have bitten the English invader, Oliver Cromwell, leading to his demise from what was then referred to as “Cork fever,” a term for malaria.
If the plan comes to fruition, it would mark the creation of what Green Party councillor Oliver Moran describes as “definitely … the smallest public statue in the world.” Moran envisions placing this diminutive statue on an empty pedestal outside Cork City Hall, among other potential locations under consideration.
Acknowledging the divisive legacy of Cromwell, Moran highlights the differing perspectives on the historical figure, depending on one’s origins on either side of the Irish Sea. In Ireland, Cromwell is remembered for his harsh military campaigns in the 17th century, resulting in the deaths of hundreds of thousands as England sought to assert control over the country.
Given Cromwell’s controversial reputation, Moran sees the proposal to honor his alleged insect adversary as a potentially popular choice. The councillor shared insights with guest host Nora Young on the inspiration behind this unconventional idea:
The concept emerged from a social media discussion, where users often inquire about Irish views on Cromwell’s history. In one thread, a suggestion surfaced about erecting a statue to the mosquito believed to have dealt the fatal bite to Cromwell. Moran seized upon this suggestion, recognizing it as a novel concept for a public monument.
In addressing the varying perceptions of Cromwell, Moran highlights the stark contrast between how the figure is viewed in Ireland versus England. While a statue of Cromwell stands outside the British Parliament, the Irish experience is colored by the devastating impact of the Cromwellian campaigns, which claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands, representing a significant portion of the pre-war population.
Regarding the design of the proposed statue, Moran indicates that the idea is still in its infancy, with several potential locations being considered. One suggestion is to utilize an existing empty plinth outside Cork City Hall or to incorporate it into the historical context of a stone fort in the city center with ties to the Cromwell era.
In response to skepticism about the historical accuracy of the mosquito legend, Moran emphasizes the symbolic power of the story, which conveys a narrative of the downfall of tyrants and the vulnerability of the mighty to seemingly insignificant forces. He underscores the role of storytelling in inspiring people and conveying broader themes of power dynamics.
Through this proposal, Moran aims to make a broader statement about the role of public art in shaping a city’s identity, drawing connections between Cork’s natural environment, rooted in its marshy landscape, and the creative exploration of its history through innovative art installations.