Contemplate a figure torn between opposing forces. That is Der Jahrhundertschritt. This bronze sculpture stands here in Bonn as a powerful symbol. It represents the turmoil of the 20th century. Der Jahrhundertschritt is German for “The Step of the Century.”
Wolfgang Mattheuer created this artwork in 1984. It quickly became one of the most important pieces of art in East Germany during the country’s division. The sculpture embodies the division between East and West. It shows the struggle between ideologies.
The idea for Der Jahrhundertschritt evolved over time. Mattheuer explored similar themes in his earlier paintings. In his 1981 painting “Aggression,” a figure appears with conflicting extremities. One arm salutes in the Nazi style. The other clenches a communist fist. One leg wears a soldier’s boot. The other is bare.
Mattheuer described this figure as a “racing figure” born of “helpless rage.” He saw it as chaos and a loss of center. The sculpture Der Jahrhundertschritt developed from these ideas. It represents a person torn apart by opposing ideologies.
Look closely at the sculpture’s gestures. They have historical meaning. The right hand performs the Hitler salute. The left hand clenches into a communist fist. Mattheuer even painted a red ribbon on the left arm. This symbolizes the working class.
These gestures represent two totalitarian ideologies. These ideologies affected Germans and others in the 20th century. Fascism in Germany and communism both made claims on the people. Both dictatorships ultimately failed.
The crack in the chest of Der Jahrhundertschritt symbolizes a body trapped. It shows the struggle between opposing ideologies. It also represents the psychological consequences of these struggles.
The Step of the Century gained recognition in both East and West Germany. It was featured in the 1988 exhibition “Zeitvergleich ’88.” A journalist described it as a symbol of the leap from East to West.
There are several casts of Der Jahrhundertschritt. They are located in different places. You can find them in Berlin, Oberhausen, Halle an der Saale, and Leipzig. An unpainted bronze cast stands in Reichenbach im Vogtland.
The Step of the Century became a symbol for the House of History Foundation. Bronze casts mark the entrances to their exhibition halls in Bonn and Leipzig.
Hermann Schäfer wanted to create a larger version of Der Jahrhundertschritt. He envisioned a 5-meter tall bronze cast. Plans to install it in Leipzig and Berlin did not succeed.
SAP founder Hasso Plattner acquired the sculpture in 2012. It was displayed in Potsdam before finding its current home.
Mattheuer himself spoke about his sculpture. He called it a “nightmare figure” and “the embodiment of absurdity.” He saw it as a conflict between longing and a disappointing world. It represents a homesickness for unity. It shows the contradictions that tear individuals apart.
Eduard Beaucamp described Der Jahrhundertschritt as a “mocking, bitter swan song for modern dictatorships.” The sculpture remains a powerful reminder of the 20th century’s divisions. It shows the importance of understanding and overcoming ideological conflicts. Take a moment to reflect on the message of Der Jahrhundertschritt. It speaks to the ongoing human struggle for unity and peace.