Surprise Me!

Berlin wax museum unveils second Angela Merkel

2013-09-19 30 Dailymotion

Madame Tussauds in Berlin unveiled its latest addition to its collection of wax figures - a new version German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

The new figure stands firm next to an earlier version from 2005, when Merkel was first elected Chancellor.

One of the most noticeable differences -- her trademark hand gesture, now internationally known as the Merkel Diamond.

But that's not all says Nina-Kristin Zerbe of the museum.

SOUNDBITE: Madame Tussauds Berlin Spokeswoman, Nina-Kristin Zerbe, saying (German)

"Yes, of course she has the diamond shape hand position symbolizing power. Also, she has a beautiful hairdo and in my view (gestures), she has much nicer, more positive charisma."

The unveiling came three days before Germany's national elections, where Merkel is a clear favorite.

But the timing was pure coincidence, according to the museum, as work on the new statue began in London eight months ago.