Bronze Statue - Reclining woman with Apples - Fernando Botero

A Bronze Ode to Abundance and Sensuality: Fernando Botero’s Bronze Figure - "Reclining Woman with Apples"

The "Reclining Woman with Apples", a signed bronze sculpture by Botero, exemplifies the artist’s talent for merging form, narrative, and emotion into a single artwork. Created during his Paris years, where he focused intensively on sculpture, this piece is a striking representation of Botero’s philosophy: celebrating the beauty of abundance.

The reclining figure is both serene and commanding. Her voluptuous form rests languidly, exuding a quiet confidence. The apples placed around her are more than mere decorative elements; they symbolize temptation, vitality, and the richness of life. This subtle interplay of themes elevates the sculpture beyond its physicality, inviting viewers to reflect on the sensual and symbolic connection between humanity and nature.

Fernando Botero: The Master of Voluminous Art

Fernando Botero, born on April 19, 1932, in Medellín, Colombia, is one of the most celebrated artists of the modern era. Known for his distinctive style called Boterismo, Botero’s art is characterized by exaggerated proportions and rounded forms. His sculptures and paintings often explore themes of human emotion, societal critique, and the vibrancy of life, all through the lens of monumental volume.

Botero’s artistic journey began with his fascination for traditional art techniques, which he later redefined into a visual language entirely his own. After studying in Madrid and Florence, and spending formative years in Paris, Botero developed the style that has captivated audiences worldwide. His works are prominently displayed in public spaces and museums, including the Botero Museum in Bogotá, Colombia, which houses over 120 of his masterpieces and offers an unparalleled insight into his artistic legacy.

A Study of Form and Volume

Botero’s mastery of form is unparalleled, and this sculpture is a testament to his unique ability to transform the heaviness of bronze into a dynamic expression of life. The woman’s body is generously proportioned, a deliberate rejection of traditional ideals of beauty in favor of celebrating fullness, vitality, and individuality.

Her rounded limbs and smooth curves capture the interplay of light and shadow, emphasizing the sculpture’s three-dimensionality. The polished surface of the bronze reflects light in subtle ways, enhancing the figure’s sensuality and warmth. The woman’s relaxed pose, with one arm supporting her head and the other resting gracefully, conveys an air of ease and contentment, while her soft gaze invites the viewer into a moment of quiet introspection.

The Context of Creation

This sculpture was likely created in the mid to late 20th century, during Botero’s most prolific period. While the exact year of its creation is unspecified, the style and craftsmanship reflect Botero’s mature phase, when he had fully mastered the medium of bronze. Produced in the artist’s Paris studio, this piece embodies his dedication to perfection, from the intricate details of the reclining figure to the smooth, tactile finish of the bronze.

Apples: A Deliberate Symbol

The inclusion of apples in this composition is not incidental. In Botero’s works, fruit often serves as a symbol of abundance, sensuality, and life’s simple pleasures. Here, the apples enhance the narrative of the reclining figure, creating a dialogue between the woman’s form and the organic roundness of the fruit. This visual harmony underscores Botero’s fascination with balance and repetition in both form and meaning.

Fernando Botero and His Legacy

Botero’s works transcend cultural and temporal boundaries, making his art universally admired. His sculptures, often displayed in prominent public spaces, have become symbols of joy, vitality, and human diversity. The Botero Museum, located in Bogotá, Colombia, stands as a monument to his achievements, showcasing his paintings, sculptures, and a curated collection of works by other renowned artists.

Botero’s influence extends far beyond the art world. His pieces provoke thought and emotion, encouraging viewers to challenge societal norms and embrace alternative perspectives on beauty and form. The "Reclining Woman with Apples" is no exception, offering a celebration of individuality and self-acceptance.

A Celebration of Life and Sensuality

"Reclining Woman with Apples" captures the essence of Botero’s artistic philosophy. The figure’s voluptuous form, paired with the timeless symbolism of apples, creates a narrative of abundance and sensuality. This bronze masterpiece invites viewers to celebrate life’s richness and find beauty in its imperfections.

Through this sculpture, Fernando Botero reminds us that art is not merely an aesthetic experience but a profound exploration of identity, culture, and humanity’s shared connection to the world around us.

Height:  20,5cm
Width: 33,8 cm
Depth: 17,8 cm
Weight: 8,7 kg
100% Bronze