In brief
The Trump administration recently gilded Washington’s towering bronze Horses of the Arts of War with 23.75‑karat gold, a $5.1 million project that has ignited debate across the capital. While some locals praise the gleam as a tribute to national heritage, others criticize the expense and its diversion from public needs. The BBC’s on‑site video captures a spectrum of responses—from nostalgic admiration to vocal protest—reflecting broader questions about how contemporary governments preserve or reinterpret historical artifacts. This move underscores the tension between art, wealth, and civic memory in public spaces.
The recent regilding of the Horses of the Arts of War statue ensemble, located near the Lincoln Memorial, has prompted a wave of public responses, filmed by BBC reporters.
According to federal records, the three bronze horses were coated in 23.75‑karat gold, with the total effort costing about $5.1 million.
While some residents hail the gilding as a tribute to national heritage, others take issue with the expense, arguing that the money could have gone to public services.
The BBC’s on‑site video showcases tourists and locals offering varied takes—from admiration and nostalgia to protest and civic commentary.
“It’s like a gold crown on a monument,” one tourist remarked.
“It feels like a distraction from real needs,” another added.
This initiative reflects broader questions about how contemporary administrations choose to preserve or re‑interpret historical artifacts, raising the issue of art, wealth, and public memory.
