What moves first dies last. That’s the profound meaning behind “Primum Movens Ultimum Moriens”. This striking monument stands as a tribute to Professor Dirk Durrer.
Dirk Durrer was a pioneer in Dutch cardiology. He was a groundbreaking cardiologist and professor at the University of Amsterdam. Durrer’s work revolutionized the understanding of the heart.
This memorial is located in the Professor Durrerplantsoen. The park is a section of Minervaplein named in his honor. “Primum Movens Ultimum Moriens” was unveiled in 1986 by Princess Juliana.
The monument was commissioned by the Durrer Comite Foundation and the city of Amsterdam. Lucien den Arend designed this stainless steel sculpture. It stands approximately four meters tall.
Den Arend’s work represents the aortic arch. Two parallel silver tubes curve gracefully. They bend both vertically and horizontally. Walking around it reveals a dynamic interplay of lines.
Initially, it might seem abstract. But it represents a blood vessel making it realistic. The title echoes Durrer’s inaugural lecture in 1957. He became the first professor of cardiology in Amsterdam.
Durrer was born in Schiedam in 1918. He died in Amsterdam in 1984. He is considered the founder of cardiology research in the Netherlands.
Durrer’s innovative work included the Durrer needle. This device allowed detailed electrical measurements within the heart muscle. He collaborated with physicist Henk van der Tweel. Together they developed equipment to measure electrocardiograms.
His research led to a groundbreaking 1970 article. “Total Excitation of the Isolated Human Heart” has been cited over 2500 times. Durrer published over 500 articles, books and conference contributions.
“Primum Movens Ultimum Moriens” acknowledges Durrer’s impact. Monuments reflect the values of a community. This one honors a doctor and scientist not political power.
It rewards persistent viewers offering multiple levels of interpretation. It serves as an autonomous artwork and tribute. It is accessible to a broad audience.
So as you stand before “Primum Movens Ultimum Moriens” consider its deeper meaning. Remember Dirk Durrer’s legacy. He moves first in cardiology and his impact dies last.