Contemplate this question: What does it mean for humanity to be the measure of all things? Here, before us stands Der Mensch, das Ma\u00df aller Dinge Mural. This striking mural embodies that very concept. It’s a powerful statement about humanity’s role in shaping our world.
This artwork now graces a residential building. You can find it at the corner of Friedrichsgracht and Sperlingsgasse. However, its story began elsewhere. Originally, Der Mensch, das Ma\u00df aller Dinge Mural adorned the former DDR Ministry of Construction. The ministry stood on Breite Stra\u00dfe.
Walter Womacka created this mural in 1968. Womacka was a prominent artist in the German Democratic Republic. He was known for his socialist realism style. His works often reflected the ideals of the state. Other famous works by Womacka include the frieze at the Haus des Lehrers and the Brunnen der V\u00f6lkerfreundschaft. You can also find his work at the Haus des Reisens.
Der Mensch, das Ma\u00df aller Dinge Mural is a large piece. It measures 15 by 6 meters. That’s about 90 square meters. It consists of 360 enameled copper plates. The vibrant colors and detailed imagery are striking.
The mural depicts a figure reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man. This figure is an architect or worker. He stands within a circle. His right arm extends at an angle. In his left hand, he appears to hold a blueprint.
When the DDR Ministry of Construction faced demolition in 2010, the mural’s fate was uncertain. Thankfully, the Freundeskreis Walter Womacka e. V. intervened. The Wohnungsbaugesellschaft Berlin-Mitte rescued the artwork. They carefully restored and stored the enameled plates for three years. In 2013, Der Mensch, das Ma\u00df aller Dinge Mural found its new home.
The phrase “Der Mensch ist das Ma\u00df aller Dinge” translates to “Man is the measure of all things.” The ancient Greek philosopher Protagoras coined this phrase. He was a contemporary of Socrates in the 5th century BC. The phrase suggests that human perception is the ultimate standard. It means things are as they appear to each individual.
Bruno Flierl has interpreted this mural as a reminder. He thought it was addressed to the construction experts in the DDR Ministry. He believed the mural cautioned them. It urged them not to forget that people are the true measure. This was especially important in the 1960s and 1970s. During this time, the DDR increasingly relied on industrial large-scale construction.
Consider the impact of Womacka’s work. It provokes reflection on humanity’s place in the world. It encourages us to consider how we shape our environment. As you stand before Der Mensch, das Ma\u00df aller Dinge Mural, remember its history. Remember its message. Let it inspire you to think critically about the world around you.