Who sculpted this magnificent bronze? Before you stands the Liegende Figur a truly remarkable piece. It’s not just any statue though. It’s a gift. A gift from a British sculptor to the city of Vienna.
The Liegende Figur is actually called Hill Arches. Henry Moore created it between 1972 and 1973. The City of Vienna received it in 1978. It now sits majestically in a water basin. This is in front of St Charles’s Church at Karlsplatz.
Imagine the journey. This enormous sculpture traveled from England to Austria. It’s over 550 centimeters long. Think of the logistics! The installation itself must have been a spectacle. The reflecting pool enhances its beauty. It allows the flowing lines of the bronze to dance in the water. The forms are rhythmically moving. The empty spaces are as important as the solid forms. This is typical of Moore’s style.
It’s not just a pretty face though. Hill Arches speaks to themes of family and protection. Some see a mother and child others a family group. Moore himself liked the mystery it evoked. He wanted people to move around it. He wanted the perspective to change constantly. He appreciated that a new surprising view would reveal itself with every turn.
It’s quite extraordinary isn’t it? This piece isn’t just art it’s a story. A story of generosity artistic vision and international collaboration. It’s a permanent fixture in Vienna’s landscape. Its subtle curves mirror the Baroque architecture behind. A perfect marriage of modern art and historical setting. It’s a testament to the enduring power of art and its ability to transcend borders and time. The Liegende Figur also known as Hill Arches is truly a must-see in Vienna.