Sculpted in bronze, the Ruhender Athlet exudes a sense of quiet strength. Here, at the Jahnplatz, right behind the shimmering waters of the swimming pool, rests Georg Kolbe’s masterpiece. The Ruhender Athlet, slightly larger than life, captures a young man in repose. He lies on his side, his right arm bent and supporting his weight. His right leg is casually crossed over his left, a pose of relaxed contemplation. This statue has a fascinating backstory. Kolbe’s original model for the Ruhender Athlet was a man named Hans Levi. The initial design, a small model, was submitted in 1935 to the art committee for the Olympic grounds. Interestingly, another athlete statue by Kolbe had once graced the old Grunewald Stadium. This statue’s casual posture, distinct from the other sculptures on the grounds, sparked controversy and debate. The committee demanded revisions, expecting a more conventional heroic pose. Yet, Kolbe, confident in his artistic vision, refused to alter his design. He believed the Ruhender Athlet possessed a unique grace and power, unlike any other work present at the Olympic venue. He envisioned it as a statement of artistic independence, not mere propaganda. The Ruhender Athlet was eventually installed as planned, defying the committee’s objections. However, the statue’s journey didn’t end there. In 1947, amidst post-war anxieties, the British authorities buried the Ruhender Athlet in the Maifeld. This was a protective measure, a preemptive strike against potential metal thieves seeking to exploit the valuable bronze. The statue, a symbol of athletic grace, became a hidden treasure, a testament to a turbulent era. Today, the Ruhender Athlet stands once more in its intended location. It serves as a reminder of artistic integrity, historical complexities, and the enduring power of art to transcend even the most challenging circumstances.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to