Wäinö Aaltonen’s (1894–1966) Lily of Turku, located in the park Runebergin puisto beside the Aura Bridge, was the first public sculpture purchased by the City of Turku for its own collection. This modernist sculpture was Aaltonen’s third monumental work. It was carved in granite at J. E. Forsman’s stone sculpture studio in Helsinki and unveiled on 7 September 1928.

The work’s original title, French Lily, was changed to Lily of Turku at the artist’s suggestion when the purchase decision was made. The lily motif at the female figure’s feet also appears on Turku’s coat of arms, and the work’s new title have strengthened its significance as a symbol of Turku.

Lily of Turku has formed part of Turku’s May Day traditions since 1929. On May Day Eve, students place a student cap on the sculpture, while dental students symbolically wash it with a giant toothbrush. The celebration is organised with the permission of WAM Museum of Contemporary Art to ensure that the sculpture is not at risk of damage.

In keeping with classical ideals, the work’s female figure stands in a twisting contrapposto pose that creates a relaxed impression. When the work was created, the depiction of a nude female figure was not associated with questions concerning the viewer’s gaze. Instead, it was regarded as an expression of sensuality and naturalness.