Have you noticed the Large Totem Head before? This striking sculpture stands here on Karolinenstrasse. It often sparks different reactions from people. Some love it. Others scratch their heads in confusion.
The Large Totem Head is an abstract artwork by the English sculptor Henry Moore. Moore was born in 1898 and died in 1986. He is best known for his semi-abstract bronze sculptures. You can find them as public art around the world.
This particular piece was created in 1968. It is called Grosser Totem in German. The Large Totem Head is made of bronze. It stands 244 cm tall. That is about eight feet.
Karstadt AG donated the sculpture in 1979. That same year it was placed here. Karstadt is now known as Galeria Nurnberg. The Large Totem Head has been here since then.
Moore’s work often explores the human form. His sculptures often suggest the female body. He also created family groups. Many of his forms contain hollow spaces. Some say his reclining figures resemble the hills of his birthplace. That place is Yorkshire.
Looking closely at the Large Totem Head, you might see a face. There are two eyes and a nose. Perhaps there is long hair around the face. One observer found the face to have a sad look. He thought the opening was small giving the artwork a closed-in feel.
The Large Totem Head has a smooth curved back. The front is concave. It is bisected down the center. This emphasizes the sculpture’s symmetry. It gives the appearance of an organic thing. Think of a fruit sliced open.
Moore was interested in totemic symbolism. This interest is reflected in the design. He was also interested in hollowed interior spaces. The sculpture can also be seen as a boat.
Moore once said all art is abstract. He said some artists are more visual. They get excitement from nature. Others work from their insides. For him, he could not separate sculpture from living forms.
The Large Totem Head is an example of Moore’s larger bronzes. These were well-suited for public art. He often worked with assistants to create these large forms. They were based on maquettes.
Moore often started with small forms shaped by his hands. This gave his work an organic feeling. He collected natural objects for inspiration. He used skulls, driftwood, pebbles, rocks, and shells. These inspired his organic forms.
So next time you pass by the Large Totem Head, take a closer look. See what you can find in its abstract form. It might make you feel a little sad. Or it might inspire you. That is the power of art.