Mark Zuckerberg, the 40-year-old Facebook founder with an estimated net worth of $110 billion, recently demonstrated his love for his wife, Priscilla Chan, in a unique way—by commissioning a statue in her likeness. Priscilla, 39, a philanthropist and former pediatrician, shares three children with Zuckerberg: Maxima (8), August (5), and Aurelia, who was born in 2022. The couple’s relationship, which began at Harvard, continues to capture public attention, especially with Zuckerberg’s recent tribute that channels ancient Roman traditions.
The Statue Unveiled
On August 13, Zuckerberg took to Instagram to share a photo and video of the statue, which was created by contemporary artist Daniel Arsham. The statue, depicting Priscilla in a wind-blown silver garment, stands as a modern interpretation of Roman sculpture. In the accompanying photo, Priscilla is seen standing next to the statue, casually sipping from a travel mug while dressed in a dusty pink robe with white and blue details. Zuckerberg captioned the post, “Bringing back the Roman tradition of making sculptures of your wife,” signaling a blend of historical homage with a modern twist.
A Cheeky Response
Priscilla, known for her humor and down-to-earth personality, reshared Zuckerberg’s post on her Instagram Stories with a playful comment, writing, “You can’t miss me!” Her response highlights the light-hearted nature of the couple’s relationship, even as they navigate the complexities of being one of the world’s most high-profile pairs.
Historical Significance
The practice of creating statues to honor loved ones dates back to ancient Rome, where sculptures were often commissioned to memorialize significant individuals or to establish meaningful familial associations. According to a blog by National Museums Liverpool, these statues served as both tributes to the deceased and as a way to connect with their legacy. By commissioning a statue of Priscilla, Zuckerberg not only pays tribute to his wife but also aligns with this ancient tradition, blending history with contemporary art.
Their Love Story
Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan’s relationship began in 2003 when they met at a college party while both were students at Harvard University. Their bond grew over the years, leading to their marriage in May 2012. The wedding itself was a surprise event, as the invited guests believed they were attending a party to celebrate Priscilla’s graduation from medical school. Instead, they witnessed the couple exchange vows in an intimate outdoor ceremony at their home in Palo Alto, California.
Family Life
Since their marriage, Zuckerberg and Chan have welcomed three daughters into their lives. Maxima, affectionately known as Max, was born in 2015, followed by August in 2017, and their youngest, Aurelia, in 2022. The couple has been open about the joys and challenges of parenthood, often sharing glimpses of their family life on social media. Despite their immense wealth and public profiles, Zuckerberg and Chan have made efforts to maintain a sense of normalcy for their children, focusing on their education and well-being.
Public Appearances
The couple’s public appearances often reflect their shared values and interests. This summer, Zuckerberg and Chan made headlines when they attended the pre-wedding celebration of billionaire heir Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in India. The couple donned matching all-black outfits, with Zuckerberg wearing a black suit adorned with gold dragonfly embellishments, and Chan stunning in a black dress decorated with gold flowers. Zuckerberg shared a photo from the event on Instagram, captioning it, “Love an Indian wedding. Congrats to Anant and Radhika,” showcasing their appreciation for diverse cultures and traditions.
A Modern Power Couple
Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan represent a modern power couple who balance their professional endeavors with a commitment to family and philanthropy. Chan, who has dedicated much of her time to the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, focuses on health, education, and scientific research, aiming to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Zuckerberg, on the other hand, continues to lead Meta, formerly Facebook, while also supporting the couple’s philanthropic efforts.
An Artistic Tribute
The statue commissioned by Zuckerberg is more than just a piece of art; it’s a testament to the couple’s enduring love and respect for each other. By choosing to honor Priscilla in this way, Zuckerberg underscores the importance of their relationship and the role that art can play in expressing deep personal sentiments. The statue, with its blend of modern and classical elements, symbolizes not only the couple’s connection but also their appreciation for history and culture.
Conclusion
Mark Zuckerberg’s decision to commission a statue of his wife, Priscilla Chan, is a reflection of their strong bond and mutual respect. As they continue to navigate their roles as parents, philanthropists, and public figures, the couple remains grounded in their love for each other and their shared values. This modern-day tribute, inspired by ancient Roman traditions, serves as a reminder that love can be expressed in many forms, each as unique as the relationship it celebrates.