“What secrets does time hold?” I ask looking at the Schlüssel des Stundenschlägers Sculpture. This bronze sculpture stands tall. It is an artistic accent in Mainz. The Schlüssel des Stundenschlägers Sculpture is more than just a piece of art. It embodies the spirit of its creator Hans Arp.
Hans Arp was a true European artist. He was born in Strasbourg in 1886. He died in 1966. Arp was a Dadaist, sculptor, painter and a lyrical poet. He participated in the documenta exhibitions several times. Arp grew up in a French-German family and spoke three languages. He studied in Weimar and Paris. He lived in Switzerland, Cologne and Paris. Finally, he returned to Switzerland where he died.
The Schlüssel des Stundenschlägers Sculpture is one of the most important artworks in Mainz. The state of Rhineland-Palatinate gifted it to the city in 1974. This was for the inauguration of the new town hall. The sculpture’s original location was on the Rathausplatz. This is now called Jockel-Fuchs-Platz.
The Schlüssel des Stundenschlägers Sculpture is an enlarged version of Arp’s 1962 design. It weighs 800 kg and stands 420 cm high. For a while, it was on loan to the Arp Museum Rolandseck. It greeted visitors arriving by ferry. It signaled that Rolandseck was a place of art.
Before finding its temporary home in Mainz Zollhafen, many city departments assessed the Schlüssel des Stundenschlägers Sculpture. A new concrete base was made. Transport specialists then carefully put it in place. The Schlüssel des Stundenschlägers Sculpture stands prominently. It is visible from the Rhine promenade, the north mole and passing ships. It is even visible from Goethestraße.
Hans Arp invites us to follow the contours of his art. The Schlüssel des Stundenschlägers Sculpture stands as a testament to Arp’s legacy. It enriches Mainz with its artistic presence. It bridges time through art. The sculpture’s presence sparks reflection and conversation. It serves as a key. It unlocks our perception of time.