Lithuanian sculpture of writer sparks outrage over Stalin medal detail

A recent unveiling of a sculpture honoring Lithuanian writer Borisas Dauguvietis in Biržai has ignited public anger due to an unexpected detail: the statue's lapel features a Soviet medal bearing the image of Joseph Stalin. The monument was transferred to Biržai from Vilnius last year.

Biržai District Mayor Kęstutis Knizikevičius described the situation as a misunderstanding. He explained that while council members had seen photographs of the bust, they apparently did not notice the Soviet medal with Stalin's likeness. The mayor suggested that historical context should not be erased, proposing the addition of an informational plaque to explain that the Stalin Prize awarded to Dauguvietis was for his artistic work, not political activities.

“

The scandal arose from a misunderstanding. Council members saw photos of the bust, but likely no one noticed that the lapel of B. Dauguvietis depicted a Soviet medal with Stalin's image.

The sculpture, created in 1955 by sculptor Rapolas Jakimavičius and architect Juozas Vaškevičius, is listed in the Register of Movable Cultural Assets. The unveiling ceremony on June 21 included readings from Dauguvietis's autobiography and a performance by the local theater group. The Biržai Culture Center director and the mayor both expressed satisfaction with the monument's placement, celebrating Dauguvietis's connection to his hometown.

“

One should not blindly erase history, and what to do with the bust brought from Vilnius to Biržai is still unknown; he promises to consult with experts and will only make a decision then. However, according to the mayor, perhaps an informational plaque could be placed nearby, explaining that the Stalin Prize was awarded to the creator not for politicking, but for his work.