Have I been completely oblivious before, or...

[SDaemon]

Even curling back, the overall shape remains similar.

Like I said, if they were to make it TOO obvious, it'd spoil the surprise, so making it look SIMILAR, yet not identical, would make sense.

I don't agree. The actual shapes between the statue and throne aren't similar. You are having to make a shape visually out of the statue, ignoring the statue's actual shape, in order to compare it to the throne's shape and that's why I feel its reaching. Comparatively though the throne's and Zodiark's XII model you don't need to do that with.

[Lacan]

I think this is a great observation! It isn't exact, but I think the symbolism is similar. It invokes the idea without being obvious.

On a similar note, I think the Garlean emblem takes on a new meaning now that we know the nation's origins too. It has two bent lines (the shards?) coming together with a center symbol (the source?). Looks like a symbolized version of what takes place when a shard rejoins the source. Think that is why the camera decided to focus on it when Varis was doing his big reveal with the alliance leaders. Think this stuff must have been planned out for a very long time. Maybe since 1.0 even?

[Lacan]

I just wanted to bump this because I thought it was neat :v

[Blokeymon]

Hah, no complaints from me!

Again, just want to clarify, I'm not trying to say the throne is trying to be a direct copy of Zodiark's shape, more a reference, or tribute. Something that resembles it. The same way people have a crucifix necklace to show their faith, instead of an actual massive chunk of wood with a dude nailed to it.

If this was intentional, I am genuinely surprised no-one else saw it before.