in 1921, closely correlating with the centenary celebrations of brazilian independence from portugal, the idea was finally welcomed by the state, as the government saw the statue as one of the potential figureheads for the celebrations.

although supported by the brazilian government, the statue was a gift from the catholic church, who supplied much of the funds for its construction, as well as helping to raise funds from private investors. to this day the image rights of the statue belong to the catholic church  (arquidiocese de são sebastião do rio de janeiro - arqrio)