Here she stands. The Moderne pige af Gerhard Henning is a testament to changing times. This statue captures a shift in artistic expression. It also embodies evolving ideals of beauty.
Gerhard Henning was a sculptor born in Stockholm in 1880. He passed away in 1967 in Hell. His urn rests in Copenhagen. Henning’s artistic journey began with painting. He later found his calling in sculpture.
Initially, Henning drew inspiration from Aubrey Beardsley. This was influenced by his friendship with Ivar Arosenius. Around 1909, his focus shifted. He began working at the Royal Porcelain Manufactory. This is where he honed his skills in creating refined small groups. These groups featured ornamental glaze decorations. They were inspired by French art from the 1700s.
Henning befriended Kai Nielsen. Together, they studied sculpture. They spent time at the Glyptotek. Sculptors like C. Meunier, Auguste Rodin, and Aristide Maillol influenced him. This led to a more personal style. His sculptures became increasingly monumental.
Henning explored early ancient poetry. Ovid’s Metamorphoses inspired him. This led to numerous small groups. These depicted themes of love. Cupid and Psyche were among his subjects. Throughout his career, the naked female figure remained central.
Henning worked alongside Kai Nielsen. His statuette “Lying girl from 1914” was significant. It served as the basis for Kai Nielsen’s “Leda without the swan.” After Kai Nielsen’s death in 1924, Henning gained confidence. He ventured into larger formats.
His major female figures began with the bold “Danae” in 1927. This was quickly followed by the lush “Standing girl” from 1928-29. Around 1930, Henning’s style evolved. The Moderne pige emerged. She represented a slimmer figure. She has short hair. This contrasted with antique-inspired hairstyles.
In the 1930s, Henning depicted female figures wearing shoes and socks. He later omitted these details. “Sitting girl” from 1937-38 features a complex diagonal motive. It maintains a calm balance. “Lying girl” from 1942-43 combines complexity and harmony.
His final major sculpture was “Susanne” in 1964. He worked on it for 10 years. It originated from sketches for “Pygmalion and Galatea” from 1919-20. Henning’s sense of shape, excitement for gravity, and complex balance made him a significant sculptor. He was known for his portrayal of the female figure.
Gerhard Henning’s Moderne pige stands as a symbol of artistic evolution. It also embodies changing ideals of beauty. It is a testament to Henning’s skill. It also represents his unique vision.