Consider this: A flattened oval of bronze. It stands before us, a testament to art and remembrance. This is Single Form. It is more than just a sculpture. It is a story etched in bronze.
Single Form is a creation of Dame Barbara Hepworth. Hepworth completed Single Form between 1961 and 1962. This particular version was cast for Battersea Park in 1963-64. The Morris Singer foundry brought Hepworth’s vision to life.
Hepworth’s Single Form stands as a memorial. It honors Dag Hammarskjöld. Hammarskjöld was the UN Secretary-General. He died in a plane crash in 1961. Hepworth created this sculpture to console herself. She was deeply upset by his death.
Look closely at Single Form. Notice the smooth edges. Observe the rippled surface. See the circular aperture near the top. This aperture and form have been described by some observers as a torso with an eye. Others describe it as a hand gesturing in allegiance.
The sculpture is a fully abstract piece. It served as a model. It paved the way for Hepworth’s most prestigious commission. The Jacob and Hilda Blaustein Foundation commissioned a 6.5m high Single Form. This larger Single Form stands outside the United Nations Secretariat building in New York. It was erected in June 1964.
Hepworth had a friendship with Hammarskjöld. Hammarskjöld admired her work. He displayed her sandalwood sculpture Single Form in his office. Hepworth created Single Form with Hammarskjöld in mind. The September subtitle references the month of Hammarskjöld’s death.
Hepworth’s Single Form is made of bronze. It rests upon a bronze self-base. A sandstone block sits in front of the sculpture. It bears an inscription. The inscription reads Single Form dedicated to Dag Hammarskjöld by Barbara Hepworth.
The sculpture stands 3.12m high. It is 2m wide. It has a depth of 25.4cm. The self-base measures 8cm in height. It has a width of 1.22m and a depth of 91cm.
Hepworth signed and dated the self-base. The inscription reads Barbara Hepworth Oct 1961-Feb 1962. The founder’s mark is also incised. It reads Morris Singer.
Single Form has been in place since 1963. It received Grade II status in 2016. The London County Council acquired it. They purchased it for a permanent site in Battersea Park. The sale was agreed upon in December 1963. The sum was 6,000 guineas.
Consider Single Form’s artistic interest. It is a sculpture of high artistic quality. Its scale and form are aesthetically pleasing. It was cast fluidly in bronze. Its details are subtle and well-composed.
Think about Single Form’s historic interest. It is a piece by an internationally renowned sculptor. The local authority acquired it for Battersea Park. This was on the advice of a national body. It also stands as a memorial to Hepworth’s friend.
Single Form also has international associations. It served as the model for the UN building in New York. Another identical Single Form stands at the John Hopkins University.
Single Form exists within a registered park. It joins another listed sculpture. That sculpture is Three Standing Figures by Henry Moore.
As you stand before Single Form, remember its history. Remember its artistic significance. Remember its dedication to a man of peace. It’s a beautiful piece.