Do you see the mythical creature gazing intently? That’s the Nöck of the Auf dem Meeresgrund Sculpture. The sculpture sits here in Treptower Park. Let’s uncover the story behind this intriguing work.
Auf dem Meeresgrund translates to “Seabed” or “Bottom of the Sea.” The sculpture depicts a Nöck. This is a German mythical creature with a tail fin and bulging eyes. He is peering over a stone parapet. He is looking at a naked young woman. She lies stretched out before the wall. Her face is turned away from the Nöck. She seems to be slumbering or perhaps unconscious. Her long hair falls freely.
Otto Petri created this sculpture. He first displayed a model of “Meeresgrund” at the International Jubilee Art Exhibition in 1896. The exhibition took place in the exhibition halls at Lehrter Bahnhof. Petri received a “Small Golden Medal” for his work.
In 1905, Petri gifted the model to the city of Berlin. He hoped to see his work realized in a lasting material. The city’s art commission considered a bronze version. They thought about placing it near water in a public park.
The Viktoriapark in Kreuzberg was considered. But Ernst Herter’s “A Rare Catch” was placed there instead. It went by the pond at the foot of the artificial waterfall. The group “Meeresgrund” was then designated for Treptower Park in 1906. It was to be placed on the northeastern shore of the Karpfenteich.
Finally, the sculpture group was made from Würzburg limestone. It was installed in the Karpfenteich in the summer of 1908. The Auf dem Meeresgrund Sculpture has been cleaned and restored several times.
In 1985, the sculpture was badly damaged. The Nöck’s head was removed. In 1990 and 1991, the ground beneath the sculpture shifted. This happened due to dredging work. After 1993, Hans Starcke reconstructed the Nöck’s head. This was done on the initiative of the Treptow Art Office.
The Auf dem Meeresgrund Sculpture consists of a roughly rectangular rock plinth. It sits on a substructure that is hidden by the water. The plinth has a lively natural surface. It features a group of two figures. Small boulders emerge from the water around it.
One critic noted that the “ugly cyclope Meeresgrund” looks fascinated. He is gazing at an attractive sleeping woman. The critic felt it wasn’t a great artwork. But he noted the natural material evokes primal force and sensuality.
So, as you observe the Auf dem Meeresgrund Sculpture, consider its journey. From Petri’s vision to its place here in Treptower Park, it has a rich history. It has endured damage and restoration. This intriguing sculpture continues to captivate viewers with its enigmatic scene.