Bronze Figure - Laughing Old Woman (1937) - Ernst Barlach

The Laughing Old Woman: A Testament to the Power of Emotion - Bronze Figure by Ernst Barlach

The Laughing Old Woman is a remarkable bronze statue by the renowned German sculptor Ernst Barlach. This limited-edition piece, restricted to only 20 casts, epitomizes the artist's ability to encapsulate raw human emotion and spiritual depth. Signed by the artist, this bronze figure is a collector's dream and a profound work of modern expressionism.

Ernst Barlach: A Sculptor of Human Complexity

Ernst Barlach was born on January 2, 1870, in Wedel, Germany, and passed away on October 24, 1938, in Rostock, Germany. As a pivotal figure in German expressionism, Barlach’s work often delved into the universal human experience, exploring themes of joy, sorrow, spirituality, and resilience.

Barlach studied at prestigious art academies in Hamburg and Dresden, where he honed his craft and developed his unique artistic voice. His work reflected his deep sensitivity to the human condition and his belief in the transformative power of art. Today, his legacy is preserved at the Ernst Barlach Museum in Güstrow, Germany, which showcases his contributions to modern sculpture and expressionism.

The Origins of the Laughing Old Woman

The Laughing Old Woman was created in 1937 during the twilight of Barlach’s career. At this time, the artist faced immense challenges, as his works were branded as "degenerate art" by the Nazi regime. Despite these obstacles, Barlach continued to create pieces that spoke to the resilience and spirit of humanity.

This sculpture was inspired by Barlach’s travels and observations of ordinary people, particularly his fascination with their ability to express profound emotions. The piece serves as a tribute to the wisdom and vitality found in age, portraying a figure who embodies the strength and joy of lived experience.

A Lifelike Representation of Joy

The Laughing Old Woman captures a moment of pure, unrestrained laughter. The figure’s posture is both dynamic and grounded, with her head tilted back and her face radiating an infectious sense of joy. The folds of her robe cascade naturally, emphasizing the organic movement of her body as she laughs.

Her hands, gripping her knees, are sculpted with exquisite detail, highlighting Barlach’s skill in rendering human anatomy and emotion. The statue’s smooth bronze surface is complemented by a warm patina, which lends an earthy quality to the piece.

A Universal Symbol of Resilience

Though rooted in a specific moment of joy, the Laughing Old Woman transcends individuality to become a universal symbol of human resilience. Her laughter is not merely an expression of happiness but a testament to her endurance through life’s challenges.

The figure invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences and find solace in moments of genuine emotion. It serves as a reminder that joy can persist even in the face of hardship, making the sculpture deeply relatable across cultures and generations.

A Masterpiece of Limited Edition

This bronze figure is part of an exclusive edition of only 20 casts, each signed by Ernst Barlach. Its rarity enhances its value, making it a prized possession for art collectors and admirers of modern expressionism.

Preserving the Legacy of Ernst Barlach

The Ernst Barlach Museum in Güstrow, Germany, celebrates the artist’s unparalleled contribution to sculpture and modern art. The Laughing Old Woman holds a significant place in this legacy, exemplifying Barlach’s mastery of form, emotion, and spirituality.

A Collector’s Dream

The Laughing Old Woman is more than a work of art; it is a narrative carved in bronze. For collectors, owning this sculpture means acquiring a piece of history that reflects the indomitable human spirit. Its limited-edition status and signed authenticity ensure its place as a cornerstone in any collection.

An Invitation to Connect

Barlach’s Laughing Old Woman invites us to connect with the essence of life—its highs, its lows, and the laughter that bridges them. This bronze statue is not only a tribute to the artist’s genius but also a celebration of the universal emotions that define the human experience. Owning it is an opportunity to embrace the profound beauty of art that speaks to the soul.

Height: 20 cm

Width: 29 cm

Depth: 16 cm

Weight: 3,7 kg

100% bronze