Frozen in a rocking motion a child’s bronze form cradles its knees. This is Sich wiegendes Kind a sculpture by Gretel Gemmert. It stands in a green strip along Unterrather Strasse.
The life-sized bronze figure is a remarkable piece. It showcases Gemmert’s simple yet expressive style. She captures the essence of human behavior. Gemmert avoids rigid academicism. Instead she focuses on conveying emotion through posture and gesture. The figure is understated yet powerful.
Originally part of a fountain complex in Unterrath Sich wiegendes Kind was moved. This happened in the mid-1980s. The Unterrath Bürgerverein initiated the relocation. The fountain itself was neglected and eventually abandoned. The sculpture was removed to be preserved as a stand-alone piece. It now resides at its current location.
The Bürgerverein’s efforts were not unnoticed. In 1985 they received the Düsseldorf Environmental Prize for their work preserving the sculpture. They also enhanced the green area where Sich wiegendes Kind now stands. They used old railway sleepers to improve the area. They even placed a commemorative plaque there. The plaque celebrates the Bürgerverein’s 75th anniversary.
Today Sich wiegendes Kind remains a cherished artwork. It stands as a testament to the artistic vision of Gretel Gemmert and the community’s dedication to preserving local art. The sculpture quietly invites contemplation. It speaks to the timeless beauty of childhood and simple gestures. It’s a treasure to be discovered in a quiet corner of Düsseldorf.