“Timpe te” calls to mind a whimsical tale. The Fische Statue isn’t in Zurich proper. It’s a different kind of fish entirely. This fish resides in Unteraegeri on Lake Aegeri. Made of bent round steel it’s a charming piece of lake art. It’s not just a pretty sculpture though. Christian Hablützel the Zurich artist who created it intended the statue to evoke a Brothers Grimm fairy tale. It’s named after the magic flounder in “The Fisherman and His Wife”. The fish in the story grants wishes but with a cautionary message.
Hablützel’s “Timpe te” playfully mirrors this. It’s meant to fulfill the wishes of passers-by. Simultaneously it serves as a reminder of modesty. The artist suggests that we shouldn’t always want more but remain grateful. The fish is a symbol. It represents a mediator between humans and their hidden desires. Water symbolizes the unconscious. The fish jumping from the water brings our wishes to the surface.
This artwork is anchored in the lakebed. It’s subtly placed about three metres from the shore. You can see it clearly from the Unteraegeri lake promenade. The fish appears delicate and almost transparent. Hablützel aimed for minimal disruption to the beautiful landscape. This work is unique. It’s Unteraegeri’s first permanent work of art situated entirely within the lake. Even securing the necessary permissions was a process. The canton which owns the lake had to approve the installation.
The story of “Timpe te” intertwines art nature and a timeless tale. It invites reflection on our desires. More importantly it celebrates the simple beauty of Lake Aegeri. The Fische statue is more than just a sculpture. It’s a conversation starter a gentle reminder and a unique addition to the lakeside charm.