I am not sure whether I am interpreting the feelings of many people but the three-legged horse at the entrance of Valletta is distasteful to me both in conception and in visual impact.

In trying to be original we end up with a stupidity.

The sculptor is reported to have said that it is meant to convey a message on power and politics. The missing detail (that is, the fourth leg) is supposed to transform the sculpture into an ironic testimony to the illusory nature of power. You have to scratch your head very strongly to arrive at that conclusion. Whoever looks at it for the first time is completely confounded. The reaction is one of shock followed by one of perplexity.

Perhaps, the sculptor meant to send a message about the disabled but why did he have to chose a beautiful horse to do so?

Clearly, the horse is unware of its disfigurement because it stands proud and cocky at the entrance of the capital city as if ready to bolt at any moment of confrontation.

I only hope the statue’s stay at the site is one of short duration. It’s continued presence would only add to Valletta’s woes.