Reclining Figure (External Form)
Artist: Henry Moore (British, 1898-1986)
Date: 1953-1954
Dimensions:
H: 41 in. (104.1 cm); L: 84 in. (213.4 cm); W: 34 1/2 in. (87.6 cm)
Medium: Bronze.
Classification: Sculpture
Credit Line: Purchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey
Object number: 1958.74
Label Text:In his semi-abstract sculpture Henry Moore was most interested in the human figure, but he often related it to natural forms such as bones, shells, and pebbles. Reclining Figure (External Form) echoes the curves of a female body, but also recalls a smoothed and hollowed piece of driftwood. The sculpture also explores Moore’s fascination with the way space interacts with form. Space flows in and around the sculpture, yet it remains solid and timeless. This, for Moore, was an essential element of his reclining forms: “A reclining figure can recline on any surface. It is free and stable at the same time. It fits in with my belief that sculpture should be permanent, should last for an eternity.”
This is the first bronze that was cast of Reclining Figure (External Form). It was originally placed by Moore in the garden of his house and studio at Much Hadham, Hertfordshire, England. Before this cast was shipped to Toledo, Moore had a second cast made for himself as its replacement.
This is the first bronze that was cast of Reclining Figure (External Form). It was originally placed by Moore in the garden of his house and studio at Much Hadham, Hertfordshire, England. Before this cast was shipped to Toledo, Moore had a second cast made for himself as its replacement.
On view
In Collection(s)