King Jehoshaphat
King Jehoshaphat was the fourth king of Judah (Judea) and reigned from 868 to 847 BCE.
King Jehoshaphat was considered a good and pious king, who wanted to eradicate ancient superstitions and educate the people in God’s law. He established a large army in Jerusalem and became a wealthy and respected king who received tributes from Philistines and Arabs alike.
The statue
The statue shows Jehoshaphat as king with crown and sceptre. Images from his reign are depicted on the plinth: A warrior carrying a shield and a beacon symbolise Jehoshaphat’s strengthening of the country’s defences. In the centre panel, people are being educated in God’s law.
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The sculpture
The sculpture was modelled by Kristofer Leirdal and carved by Bård Sagfjæra in 1978.