706 - Rudolf Belling (1886, Berlin – Krailling, 1972)

Rudolf Belling (1886, Berlin – Krailling, 1972) Female Torso Bronze with a dark brown patina. 1953. Height approx. 51 cm, base approx. 8 x 16 cm. One of only 6 castings with slightly varying dimensions. Signed and dated on the plinth. See Hofmann 78; see Nerdinger 95. This work will be included in the catalogue raisonné currently in preparation. • Pioneer of abstract sculpture and creator of the groundbreaking *Dreiklang* (1919) • Rare bronze from 1953, part of an edition of only six casts • Elegant, organic-abstract formal language with great sculptural presence Rudolf Belling is considered one of the most important pioneers of modern sculpture. As a pioneer of the avant-garde, he developed a distinctive formal language that bridges geometric abstraction and organic movement. His groundbreaking *Dreiklang* (1919) is considered a milestone in abstract sculpture. Created in 1953, the “Female Torso” belongs to Belling’s mature creative phase during his exile in Turkey. Here, he combines the classical ideal of physical harmony with the formal reduction of his avant-garde beginnings. The elegantly soaring silhouette combines flowing, organic forms with striking incisions. Asymmetrical contours and the dynamic interplay of convex and concave surfaces lend the figure a fascinating spatial dynamism. The dark brown patina underscores the bronze’s sensual presence. With an edition of only six casts, the Female Torso is a rare testament to Belling’s mature sculptural artistry, combining the innovative power of classical modernism with timeless sculptural elegance. Exhibition: Rudolf Belling, Galerie im Erker, St. Gallen 1971/72. Provenance: Erker-Galerie, St. Gallen; Private collection, Switzerland, likely acquired from the aforementioned gallery during the exhibition in 1971; Private collection, Switzerland, inherited from the aforementioned gallery. Taxation: subject to regular taxation (VAT: Regular Taxation).