A bronze beauty poised mid-throw. This is Die Kugelspielerin. Her story is one of survival and artistry.
Before us stands Die Kugelspielerin a sculpture by Professor Walter Schott. Gifted to Dusseldorf in 1902 by Gustav Herzfeld a Jewish textile manufacturer and city council member. She’s more than just a pretty face though. She represents a fascinating intersection of art history and social upheaval.
Created in 1897 Die Kugelspielerin quickly became a sensation. It wasn’t just her beauty. Her pose a dynamic mix of classical and modern styles perfectly captured the spirit of the era. The slender figure the flowing drapery the athletic stance. This appealed to many. The sculpture was reproduced countless times in various materials. Meissen porcelain even produced a version.
Her journey wasn’t easy. Because of Herzfeld’s Jewish heritage Die Kugelspielerin faced removal during the Nazi regime. Luckily the then Kunstakademie director Fritz Roeber fought for its survival. A compromise was reached. The plaque stating that Herzfeld donated her was removed. During World War II she almost met a tragic end. She was almost melted down as part of the “Bronze donation of the German people”. She survived that too.
After the war Die Kugelspielerin’s trials continued. Vandalism and theft threatened her existence. She was repeatedly damaged and stolen. Several times she was returned. She’s been restored several times. She even travelled to Berlin for an exhibition in 1989-1990. Today her original plaque with Herzfeld’s name is back. A testament to resilience.
So next time you see Die Kugelspielerin remember her turbulent past. Appreciate the beauty and strength. Remember her story. She has survived countless threats and remains a beloved symbol of Dusseldorf’s rich artistic and social history.