The imposing equestrian sculpture in the garden of the Presidential (Grasalkovič) Palace is the result of a restoration based on surviving fragment from the Nitra Provostry dating from the second half of the 18th century. The sculpture was originally located on the tympanum of this building. It was damaged during the Second World War and remained in a fragmentary state until 1991, when it was rebuilt by the sculptor Miroslav Černák.  

In 1992, the sculpture was installed in a large open space within the palace garden as part of transformation of the Presidential Palace garden into a Baroque garden, a project that involved Marián Marcinka and Dana Marcinková. 

The sculpture depicts Maria Theresa as Queen of the Kingdom of Hungary with a sceptre and seated upon a horse in a dynamic sidesaddle pose. The richly draped fabric of the sovereign’s gown contributes to an overall sense of stability. The flat, incomplete back of the work indicates that it was originally intended to be viewed only from the front, as an integral architectural element. Today, mounted on a raised pedestal, it stands alone in its surroundings. 

Along the line of sight beyond the historicist sculpture stands the modern fountain Joy of Life.  

Following extensive renovation of the Presidential Garden, the Equestrian Statue of Maria Theresa is once again open to the public. 

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Research status as of 30. 06. 2023.