The statue was created in 1959 by José de Creeft under the commission of George Delacorte, so children could experience Alice in Wonderland in person. The sculpture was originally cast at the Long Island Modern Art Foundry in the Steinway Mansion.[2] The sculpture is unique because visitors are encouraged to interact with the statue. The statue is made of bronze and was derived from images John Tenniel created for the original publication. The face of Alice is actually based on Creeft's daughter, Donna.[1] The sculpture's Mad Hatter is a caricature of George Delacorte.[3]
At the base of the sculpture are engravings from Lewis Carrol's poem Jabberwocky.[4] The sculpture was dedicated to George's wife Margarita whose name is located at the base of the sculpture. Additionally, there are six plaques located around the base of the sculpture that depict her favorite moments from Alice in Wonderland.[5]
The statue was the subject of a foiled terrorist plot in April 2020. Kevin Fallon was arrested for plotting to blow up the statue, as well as threatening to kill several others. He was sentenced to psychiatric care and evaluation.[6][7]
There has been an ongoing debate since the sculpture was erected within the city of NY, over whether the statue depicts the White Rabbit, or the March Hare.[8]
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