Statue of Konstantinos Kanaris

The ‘bourlotieris’ (‘fireship commander’) during the Greek Revolution

Konstantinos Kanaris (1793 or 1795-1877), born on the historical island of Psara which was destroyed by the Ottomans in 1824, was known by the title ‘bourlotieris’ (‘fireship commander’) during the Greek Revolution due to his daring exploits in the sea, such as the burning of the Ottoman flagship in Chios, the burning of the Ottoman fleet in Tenedos and the Ottoman frigate in Samos. After the creation of the Greek state, due to his great popularity, he assumed government positions and became a minister and prime minister several times.

What are the characteristics of the sculpture?

The small-in-size bronze statue of Konstantinos Kanaris is set on a square, medium-height marble base and bears the signature of the sculptor, Michalis Tombros. The figure of the hero is rendered almost head-on, while the contrast between the movement of the body to the right and the turn of the head to the left is characteristic. Dressed in traditional everyday island attire, the hero, ready to set fire to a ship of the Ottoman fleet, holds a ship's rope in his right hand, while in his left, which rests on his belt, he tightly holds a hook.The artist depicted the hero realistically rather than idealistically, managing to capture the inner expressiveness of Kanaris and the freedom of his attitude. Despite the recognition of the artistic value of the sculpture by experts, its small size was negatively received by the public, and was accompanied by derisive comments.

When was the work commissioned and installed?

The sculpture, by Michalis Tombros, was a replica of a larger-sized statue of Kanaris in Chios, which he had also crafted. The exact date of its installation is unknown. It was likely installed during 1966 or 1967 in the then-Kanaris Square, now the Aristoteles Onasis Square, which had been organized especially for its exhibition.