Grasendes Fohlen Statue

Did the Grasendes Fohlen always have such admirers?  Locals and tourists alike adore this bronze statue.  It sits in the middle of Renée-Sintenis-Platz in Friedenau, a charming neighborhood of Berlin. The Grasendes Fohlen, or “Grazing Foal,” captures a moment of simple beauty.  Created in 1929 by Renée Sintenis, the foal has its head lowered, front legs splayed, reaching for a tasty bite.  The statue is slightly smaller than life, adding to its delicate charm.  Sintenis was known for her animal sculptures, but this one holds a special place in the hearts of Berliners.  Children often play around the statue, their hands worn smooth from petting the foal’s mane and ears. Some even try to climb its back, imagining a gentle ride.  Adults, too, are captivated by the foal’s peaceful presence.  It’s not uncommon to find a tuft of fresh grass, a carrot, or a branch placed lovingly before the statue, a tribute to its lifelike portrayal. The square itself, once called Wilmerdorfer Platz, was renamed in 1967 to honor the artist. Sintenis, whose full name was Renate Alice, became a prominent figure in Berlin’s art scene.  She befriended notable figures like Georg Kolbe, Rainer Maria Rilke, and Joachim Ringelnatz. She lived and worked in Berlin from 1905, spending her last two decades in Schöneberg.  Although she created many works, the Grasendes Fohlen remains one of her most beloved. The statue was cast by the renowned Hermann Noack foundry in Berlin, further adding to its artistic significance.  It has even been the subject of playful art interventions, like the time it sported colorful knitted leg warmers thanks to a guerilla knitting project.  The Grasendes Fohlen is more than just a statue. It’s a symbol of community, a touchstone of childhood memories, and a testament to the enduring power of art. As you leave Renée-Sintenis-Platz, carry with you the image of this graceful foal, forever grazing in the heart of Berlin.