Glancing at this bronze sculpture, have you ever wondered about the story of Der sich leckende Gepard? This artwork, created by the German sculptor Hans Martin Ruwoldt, depicts an upright seated cheetah grooming itself. The sculpture was created in 1965. You can find it in the Skulpturenhof Müm্মelmannsberg in Hamburg-Billstedt. It is located south of the residential high-rise Große Holl 2.
Hans Martin Ruwoldt was born in Hamburg in 1891. He became a prominent figure in the Hamburg art scene. He is known for his sculptures of animals.
The Sich leckender Gepard isn’t unique. Similar sculptures by Ruwoldt exist in other locations. You can find them in Hamburg-Harburg, Rendsburg, and Nortorf. These sculptures share a common theme. They depict a cheetah engaged in self-grooming.
Ruwoldt’s artistic journey took a turn during the Third Reich. His more abstract works were not well received. He then focused on more representational sculptures. These included sculptures of predators like panthers, tigers, and eagles.
After World War II, Ruwoldt returned to teaching. He headed the sculpture class at the Hochschule für Bildende Künste Hamburg from 1955 to 1959. Ruwoldt died in Hamburg in 1969.
The Sich leckender Gepard found its home in Mümmelmannsberg in 1981. It was acquired as part of the “Kunst am Bau” program. Neue Heimat Nord, now GWG or SAGA, purchased the sculpture. This company was the developer of the large residential area of Mümmelmannsberg.
Ruwoldt’s depictions of the grooming cheetah are lifelike. The animal’s posture creates a slightly abstract effect. The silhouette doesn’t perfectly align with our expectations. Our brains work to decipher the image. This effect can also be seen in his sculpture Affenbaum. It is also located in the Stadtpark.
So, as you observe the Sich leckender Gepard, consider the artist’s life. Think about his changing styles. The sculpture provides a glimpse into Ruwoldt’s artistic journey. It connects you to Hamburg’s art history. The cheetah’s simple act of grooming becomes a symbol of artistic expression.