Behold. Before us stand Vier allegorische Figuren, silent storytellers frozen in stone. These figures once graced the facade of the Rolandhaus. The Rolandhaus was a grand business building on Potsdamer Straße. It stood tall until its demolition in 1959.
Let’s delve into their history. The figures represent Commerce, Craft, Science, and Travel. They stood proudly on consoles above the second floor. Richard Bieber is credited as the artist behind these figures. This attribution dates back to 1903.
Imagine Potsdamer Straße in the early 20th century. The Rolandhaus was a prominent feature. It housed the Café Roland on its ground floor. The figures watched over the bustling street below. They saw horse-drawn carriages replaced by automobiles. They witnessed Berlin transform into a modern metropolis.
However, World War II brought destruction. The Rolandhaus suffered damage. Many buildings met a similar fate. Despite being repairable, the Rolandhaus was torn down. It disappeared from the cityscape.
But the Vier allegorische Figuren survived. In 1975, they resurfaced in Hardenbergstraße. They lacked documentation of their origin at that time.
Their rediscovery led to a significant moment in 1981. They were featured in the exhibition “Prussia – Attempt at a Stocktaking”. The exhibition took place at the Martin-Gropius-Bau. It was a celebration of Prussian history and culture.
Following the exhibition, fate intervened again. The figures found a new home. They were placed in the courtyard of the newly built Hotel Excelsior. This hotel is located at Hardenbergstraße 14. The preservationists and the hotel management wanted to give them a prominent place.
For years, the Vier allegorische Figuren stood near the entrance to the underground parking garage. Hotel guests could obtain an information sheet about the figures.
Consider the journey of these statues. From a grand building to war-torn ruins. From forgotten relics to celebrated art. The Vier allegorische Figuren embody resilience. They represent Berlin’s enduring spirit.
Each figure holds specific attributes. These signify their respective allegories. A money bag symbolizes commerce. A hammer represents craft. A scroll embodies science. A globe signifies travel.
Take a closer look. These figures showcase the artistry of their time. Their clothing reflects late Gothic and early Renaissance styles. Their expressions convey wisdom and purpose.
Today, the Vier allegorische Figuren serve as a reminder. They remind us of Berlin’s rich architectural heritage. They remind us of the importance of preserving art. They remind us of the stories embedded in stone. They stand here as a testament to history. They connect us to Berlin’s past. They inspire us to appreciate the beauty around us. They are the Vier allegorische Figuren.