W. Lehmbruck Bronze Bust - Inclined Head of a Woman - signed 1911

Wilhelm Lehmbruck Bronze – Inclined Head of a Woman signed 1911

Wilhelm Lehmbruck's "Inclined Head of a Woman" is an exceptional example of early 20th-century modernist sculpture, reflecting the artist's unparalleled ability to capture human emotion and introspection in bronze. Signed and dated 1911, this piece stands as a testament to Lehmbruck's artistic genius and his profound contribution to modernist art.

Wilhelm Lehmbruck – The Visionary Sculptor of Human Emotion

Born on January 4, 1881, in Meiderich, a suburb of Duisburg, Germany, Wilhelm Lehmbruck was one of the most influential sculptors of his time. His artistic journey began with formal training at the Kunstakademie Düsseldorf, where he studied drawing and sculpture. Influenced by classical traditions, he soon turned to the emerging modernist movement, creating works that combined traditional techniques with avant-garde sensibilities.

Lehmbruck’s works often delve into the human condition, reflecting themes of introspection, melancholy, and spiritual yearning. His sculptures are characterized by elongated forms, graceful postures, and minimalist detail, all designed to evoke profound emotional responses. The artist’s career was tragically cut short when he died in 1919 at the age of 38, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.

The Creation of "Inclined Head of a Woman"

"Inclined Head of a Woman" was sculpted in 1911, during Lehmbruck’s most creatively intense period. At the time, he was living in Paris, where he interacted with fellow modernist pioneers such as Auguste Rodin and Constantin Brâncuși. This work reflects the influence of these contemporaries, while still maintaining Lehmbruck’s distinctive style.

The sculpture embodies Lehmbruck’s philosophy of sculptural expression, emphasizing simplicity and the essence of the subject. The inclined head and delicate features convey an introspective mood, inviting viewers to engage with the inner world of the figure. Cast in bronze, the sculpture achieves a harmonious balance between strength and fragility, symbolizing the duality of human existence.

Artistic and Historical Significance

This work is a key example of Lehmbruck’s shift toward modernist abstraction, where emotional depth supersedes physical realism. The elongated neck and tilted pose highlight the artist’s fascination with the human form as a vessel for conveying universal emotions such as longing, sorrow, and hope. "Inclined Head of a Woman" is considered a precursor to his monumental works, such as "Standing Youth," which further explore themes of human vulnerability and existential reflection.

Lehmbruck’s sculptures, including this piece, are often viewed as a response to the tumultuous political and cultural climate of pre-war Europe. Created during a period of artistic and societal transformation, this work captures the fragility of the human spirit amidst the uncertainty of the times.

Material and Technique

Cast in bronze, the sculpture exemplifies Lehmbruck’s mastery of material and form. The smooth surface of the bronze accentuates the gentle curves of the figure, while the warm patina lends a timeless quality to the piece. The interplay of light and shadow across the surface further enhances the emotional depth, drawing attention to the delicate features and the contemplative pose.

Legacy of Wilhelm Lehmbruck

Lehmbruck’s work had a profound influence on modern sculpture, paving the way for a more expressive and abstract approach to the human form. His sculptures continue to be celebrated for their emotional resonance and technical brilliance. The "Inclined Head of a Woman" is not merely a representation of a female figure; it is a poetic exploration of the human condition, transcending its time and medium.

This bronze bust remains a valuable collector’s piece, representing the pinnacle of Wilhelm Lehmbruck’s artistic vision. It is a reminder of the transformative power of art to capture the essence of humanity and communicate universal truths across generations.

Height: 43 cm
Width: 36 cm
Depth: 23 cm
Weight: 8,6 kg
100% Bronze