Have you ever stopped to admire a statue while basking in the Munich sun? Right here, on the Thierschplatz, sits the Schnitterin-Brunnen, a true gem of the city. Imagine yourself stepping back in time to 1905. Skilled hands crafted this fountain from Treuchtlinger Jurakalk, a type of limestone locally sourced, its presence a testament to the city’s unique character. The centerpiece? A stunning figure, a reaper goddess known as Ceres, sculpted from the purest Euville-Marmor, a marble imported all the way from France, highlighting the international appeal of the piece.
Ceres kneels, eternally binding wheat, a gesture echoing the spirit of harvest and abundance. This is more than just a fountain. It’s a symbol, a story woven into the very fabric of Munich. This impressive monument is a reminder of the city’s rich agricultural past, where wheat played a vital role. Look closer and you’ll notice the inscription on the fountain: “Gestaltet 1905 von Erwin Kunz. Der lieben Stadt Muenchen gestiftet von Karl Waitzfelder, Rentier”. It reads like a love letter to the city.
The inscription names Karl Waitzfelder, a retired businessman, as the patron of the Schnitterin-Brunnen. He dedicated this piece to his beloved Munich, a testament to the city’s beauty and the spirit of its people. The inscription also mentions “Erwin Kunz”, a seemingly misspelled name. This was a mistake made by the sculptor, who actually was Professor Erwin Kurz. He was a renowned artist, known for his contributions to Munich’s artistic landscape, and in 1906, he took charge of a sculpture class at the Munich Art Academy. Take a closer look at the fountain and you’ll see the inscription carved onto the fountain’s front and back. The inscriptions highlight the Schnitterin-Brunnen’s significance as a gift, a testament to Munich’s enduring spirit.
You’re standing before an artful blend of sculpture and history. The fountain narrates the city’s past, connecting us to generations who celebrated harvest and admired this beautiful work of art. It’s not just a fountain, but a symbol of tradition, generosity, and artistic excellence. This is the Schnitterin-Brunnen, an exquisite piece that stands as a testament to Munich’s enduring charm.