Description

The large abstract sculpture on Nathan Phillips Square in front of City Hall, usually known as "The Archer", was created by Henry Moore, one of the 20th century's most famous artists. In 1961 Viljo Revell, architect of Toronto's City Hall, approached Henry Moore to execute a sculpture for the civic square. Revell was acquainted with the artist and suggested that one of his works would complement the flowing lines of the building. The Archer was selected from a group of Moore's maquettes (small models). However, the proposed purchase of the work with public funds ($100,000) erupted into controversy and was defeated in council. Eventually Mayor Phil Givens raised the artist's fee with private money. Henry Moore was so moved by this gesture of support for the purchase of his sculpture that he donated more than 200 sculptures, drawings and graphics to the Art Gallery of Ontario. These pieces are now housed in the Henry Moore Sculpture Centre within the AGO.