Esslingen statue sparks controversy and threats

A new bronze statue in Esslingen am Neckar, titled ‘Zwieblinger Teufel’, has sparked significant controversy and public debate. Created by artist Tim Bengel, the life-sized figure depicts a devil inspired by a medieval local legend, featuring horns and holding an onion.

Opponents of the artwork have launched an online petition to have the statue removed from the Rathausplatz, gathering over 5,000 signatures. Critics have described the figure as tasteless, while some religious individuals expressed concern regarding the prominence given to a devil figure.

The controversy has escalated beyond verbal debate; the statue was recently defaced with black paint, and authorities are investigating online insults and death threats directed at the mayor, Matthias Klopfer. Mayor Klopfer stated that the original intent of the project was to bring the city's local legend to life.