Larry La Trobe - Melbourne's favorite bronze dog (7 photos + 1 video)

In 1992, Pamela Irving's "Larry La Trobe" was unveiled in the center of Melbourne. The funny, curious Larry, who looked like all dogs at once, was very warmly received by locals.





But in August 1995, it was stolen, despite being securely fastened with 30-centimeter bolts.



The life-size dog is more of a sculptor's own dog, Lucy. The nickname also came about for a reason. Larry comes from the word "larrikinism". This is a fairly common Australian tradition of disrespect and mockery of authority, disregard for strict standards of morality and behavior. Self-irony and self-deprecating ridicule are also part of this tradition. The dog's surname was added to emphasize the connection between Melbourne and the state of Victoria: Charles La Trobe was the first lieutenant governor of the state from 1851 to 1854.





The 70-centimeter bronze Larry has often been compared to a dingo, but in reality, he is a fantasy mix of breeds that does not refer to any specific one.



When Larry disappeared, suspicion fell on university students, who are known for such pranks. But since the statue was never returned, it's likely that the dog was melted down.

Despite a massive media campaign calling for the dog's return, Larry sank into oblivion.



Luckily, Peter Colliner, the owner of the foundry where Larry was cast, made another statue. The second Larry was slightly different in colour - redder - but otherwise identical. The statue was unveiled to the public by the Lord Mayor in late 1996 and returned to its original location.



The following year, Larry traveled to Osaka, Melbourne's sister city, and was awarded an award at the Midosuji Parade.



Lately, Larry has become a vagabond: he has moved again, settling near the City Hall. Ceramic Larry figurines have become very popular souvenirs, and the traveling dog himself has become one of the most photographed statues in Melbourne due to his accessibility, location, and popularity.