Behold, a bronze predator frozen in time. The Jaguar Statue is more than just a sculpture. It embodies artistry and history.
This striking sculpture was created by Heinrich Drake. He first drafted designs for a jaguar in the late 1920s. The model we see now came to life in 1938. Drake gained recognition for his animal depictions. He even won awards for his Jaguar.
In 1957, the city of Gross-Berlin acquired a cast of the Jaguar. It was then cast in bronze by the Seiler and Siebert foundry in Schöneiche. By May 1958, the “Neue Zeit” newspaper announced its installation. The Jaguar found its home in the Rosarium at the Weissen See. Now it is located in Park am Weissen See.
The Jaguar Statue has graced numerous exhibitions. These include Drake’s 65th birthday exhibition at the Nationalgalerie in 1968. It also appeared in the “Plastik und Blumen” exhibition in Treptower Park in 1971.
The Jaguar stands upright on an artificial stone base. It is a little smaller than life-size. The feline balances on its paws. Its head is turned back with alert ears. The dynamic curve of its back flows into an elegant tail. This description is according to Nicola Vösgen.
The bronze figure stands 113 centimetres tall. Its width measures 54 centimetres.
Interestingly, the first bronze version of the Jaguar was made in 1953. It went to the Staatliche Lindenau-Museum in Altenburg. Sadly, it was stolen and recast in 1993. Other casts exist in various locations. These include the Museum der Bildenden Künste in Leipzig and the sculpture collection in Bernau. Another is in Magdeburg at the Kloster Unser Lieben Frauen.
The Jaguar Statue is a testament to Drake’s talent. It also highlights Berlin’s rich artistic heritage. Take a moment to appreciate the Jaguar’s powerful presence. Consider the journey it has taken through time and art.