Feel the cool smoothness of the stone. This is the Liegende Mutter. Created in 1960 by Ruth Godbersen this sculpture rests here in Hamburg-Horn. It’s a powerful image a mother reclining her small child nestled securely in her arms.
The Liegende Mutter is more than just a pretty sculpture. It’s a piece of public art a testament to the city’s commitment to art. Hamburg bought it as part of its Kunst am Bau program. This program integrates art into public spaces. It enriches the lives of everyday citizens.
This particular spot holds another layer of history. When the Liegende Mutter was first installed in 1960 a different school stood here. It was the Volksschule Sievekingsallee. Years later this school became part of Gesamtschule Horn. Eventually it became the Grundschule Horn that you see today. The Liegende Mutter has been a silent witness to these changes. A constant in a world of shifting circumstances.
Godbersen’s style is unique. Her figures often female are simplified yet naturalistic. The forms are reduced. They flow together seamlessly. Her work often conveys a sense of quiet strength and maternal love. This is clearly visible in the Liegende Mutter. The sculpture’s gentle curves and the closeness between mother and child communicate a deep bond. It is a moment frozen in time. A symbol of enduring connection.
Take a moment to appreciate the Liegende Mutter. Notice the way the light plays across its surface. Feel the weight of history embedded in the stone. It is more than just a statue. It is a story. It is a legacy. It is a piece of Hamburg’s soul.