The winner

Andrey Ostashov • Series "2020"
Bronze, granite. 39,5?22, h = 57 cm

Male characters are a rarity in the oeuvre of Andrey Ostashov, whose work primarily centers on the feminine. This figure is imbued with a potent masculine energy and strength. The specific plasticity of the subject’s depiction draws parallels to Eastern traditions; his posture is confident, and his gaze is stern and vigilant. His facial expressions—a watchful sidelong glance and a raised eyebrow—allow the viewer to reconstruct the character’s temperament and mood.
He is seated cross-legged, with one hand braced against the ground and the other resting on his knee. The man is fully clothed, his body protected by specialized combat plating. The ensemble is completed by shoulder guards, protective neck elements, and two swords strapped to his back. A significant decorative detail is the horned bull skull at his waist, which serves a psychological, intimidating function.
The posture, with arms flared outward, is characteristic of historical depictions of the warrior class in Asian traditions—Japanese, Chinese, Mongolian, and others. This stance was used to project a menacing and formidable image of a warrior prepared to deliver a crushing blow to any rival threatening his lord. Andrey Ostashov harmoniously reinterprets these traditional traits within the context of contemporary reality.