Famous sculptures. The most famous sculptors

The emergence of sculpture dates back to the primitive era. First with labor activity man and his beliefs.

The first great sculptors, whose preserved in the history of art, were sculptors Ancient Greece And Ancient Rome- Myron, Phidias, Scopas, Polykleitos, Lysippos, Praxiteles. They are addressed to free citizens and are in many ways a plastic embodiment of ancient myths. In the images of heroes, warriors, athletes Olympic Games and the gods' ideals were embodied harmoniously developed personality. The work of these sculptors most fully revealed the humanistic essence of Greek sculpture: beauty human body and an affirmation of the significance of the human person.

The real heyday of this art form occurred in the Middle Ages. Donatello and A. Verrocchio made a very important step forward in the creation of free-standing statues, at this time the technique of bronze casting and chasing was improved, and the technique was used.

Among the sculptors of the Renaissance, J. Pilon and J. Goujon in France, A. Kraft and F. Stoss in Germany, and M. Pacher in Austria also stand out.

One of the peaks of the Renaissance are the sculptures of Michelangelo, full of titanic power and intense drama. His creations “Moses”, “The Rebel Slave” and “The Dying Slave”, “Pieta” are full of tragedy, plastic power and internal tension.

At the end of the 19th century, the star of the great French sculptor Auguste Rodin rose, creating works of great emotional impact: “Citizens of Calle”, “The Thinker”, “The Kiss”.

Famous Russian sculptors

There were also many famous sculptors in Russia who left a noticeable mark on world art.

Since the beginning of the 18th century, interest in large sculpture. At this time, classicism was established, symbolized by the sculptor Etienne Falconet to Peter I in St. Petersburg, as well as the works of Carlo Rastrelli. Until 1716 he worked mainly in France. In Russia, Rastrelli participated in the creation of many decorative and sculptural complexes, including the decoration of the Peterhof Grand Cascade. The sculptor also worked a lot on the image of Peter I. While the Tsar was still alive, in 1719, he took off Peter’s mask and then created his wax bust.

During for long years Rastrelli worked on the monument to Peter I. In 1800, an equestrian statue was erected in front of the Mikhailovsky Castle.

In the 19th century, an academic school of Russian sculpture was formed, which was represented by a galaxy of outstanding masters: M.I. Kozlovsky, F.I. Shubin, F.F. Shchedrin, V.I. Demut-Malinovsky, I.P. Martos, F.P. Tolstoy.

In the mid-19th century, the famous animal sculptor Pyotr Karlovich Klodt, the author of 4 sculptural groups “Horse Tamers” for the Annenkov Bridge in St. Petersburg, worked.

The Soviet pavilion at the Paris exhibition was built according to Iofin's design. The building ended with a gigantic pylon raised 33 meters, which was crowned with a sculpture by Mukhina.

The leading master of Soviet sculpture was Vera Ignatievna Mukhina. Her work is characterized by a powerful architectonics of sculptural composition. One of the most famous works of the sculptor is “Worker and Collective Farm Woman”, created for the international exhibition “The Art of Technology and modern life", organized in Paris in 1937.

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The silence of the great statues holds many secrets.

When Auguste Rodin was asked how he created his statues, the sculptor repeated the words of the great Michelangelo: “I take a block of marble and cut off everything unnecessary from it.” This is probably why the sculpture of a true master always creates a feeling of miracle: it seems that only a genius can see the beauty that is hidden in a piece of stone.

We are in website We are sure that in almost every significant work of art there is a mystery, a “double bottom” or a secret story that you want to reveal. Today we will share a few of them.

Horned Moses

Michelangelo Buanarrotti, "Moses", 1513-1515

Michelangelo depicted Moses with horns in his sculpture. Many art historians attribute this to misinterpretation of the Bible. The Book of Exodus says that when Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the tablets, the Jews found it difficult to look at his face. At this point in the Bible, a word is used that can be translated from Hebrew as both “rays” and “horns.” However, based on the context, we can definitely say that we are talking specifically about rays of light - that Moses’ face was shining and not horned.

Colored Antiquity

Augustus of Prima Porta", antique statue.

It has long been believed that ancient Greek and Roman white marble sculptures were originally colorless. However, recent research by scientists has confirmed the hypothesis that the statues were painted in a wide range of colors, which eventually disappeared under prolonged exposure to light and air.

The Little Mermaid's Suffering

Edward Eriksen, The Little Mermaid, 1913

The Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen is one of the most long-suffering in the world: it is the one that vandals love most. The history of its existence was very turbulent. It was broken and sawed into pieces many times. And now you can still detect barely noticeable “scars” on the neck, which appeared from the need to replace the sculpture’s head. The Little Mermaid was beheaded twice: in 1964 and 1998. In 1984, her right hand was sawed off. On March 8, 2006, a dildo was placed on the mermaid’s hand, and the unfortunate woman herself was splashed with green paint. In addition, on the back there was a scrawled inscription “Happy March 8!” In 2007, Copenhagen authorities announced that the statue might be moved further into the harbor to avoid further incidents of vandalism and to prevent tourists from continually attempting to climb it.

"Kiss" without a kiss

Auguste Rodin, "The Kiss", 1882

Auguste Rodin's famous sculpture "The Kiss" was originally called "Francesca da Rimini", in honor of the noble Italian lady of the 13th century depicted on it, whose name was immortalized by Dante's Divine Comedy (Second Circle, Fifth Canto). The lady fell in love with her husband Giovanni Malatesta's younger brother, Paolo. While they were reading the story of Lancelot and Guinevere, they were discovered and then killed by her husband. In the sculpture you can see Paolo holding a book in his hand. But in fact, the lovers do not touch each other's lips, as if hinting that they were killed without committing a sin.

The renaming of the sculpture to a more abstract one - The Kiss (Le Baiser) - was made by critics who first saw it in 1887.

The secret of the marble veil

Raphael Monti, "Marble Veil", mid-19th century.

When you look at the statues covered with a translucent marble veil, you can’t help but think about how it’s even possible to make something like this out of stone. It's all about the special structure of the marble used for these sculptures. The block that was to become a sculpture had to have two layers - one more transparent, the other more dense. Such natural stones are difficult to find, but they exist. The master had a plot in his head, he knew exactly what kind of block he was looking for. He worked with it, respecting the texture of the normal surface, and walked along the boundary separating the denser and more transparent part of the stone. As a result, the remnants of this transparent part “shone through”, which gave the effect of a veil.

Ideal David from spoiled marble

Michelangelo Buanarrotti, "David", 1501-1504

The famous statue of David was made by Michelangelo from a piece of white marble left over from another sculptor, Agostino di Duccio, who tried unsuccessfully to work with the piece and then abandoned it.

By the way, David, who has been considered a model of male beauty for centuries, is not so perfect. The fact is that he is cross-eyed. This conclusion was reached by American scientist Mark Levoy from Stanford University, who examined the statue using laser-computer technology. The “vision defect” of the more than five-meter sculpture is invisible, since it is placed on a high pedestal. According to experts, Michelangelo deliberately endowed his brainchild with this flaw, because he wanted David’s profile to look perfect from any side.

Death that inspired creativity

"Kiss of Death", 1930

The most mysterious statue in the Catalan cemetery of Poblenou is called “Kiss of Death”. The sculptor who created it still remains unknown. Usually the authorship of “The Kiss” is attributed to Jaume Barba, but there are also those who are sure that the monument was sculpted by Joan Fonbernat. The sculpture is located in one of the far corners of the Poblenou cemetery. It was she who inspired film director Bergman to create the film “The Seventh Seal” - about the communication between the Knight and Death.

Hands of Venus de Milo

Agesander (?), "Venus de Milo", c. 130-100 BC

The figure of Venus takes pride of place in the Louvre in Paris. A Greek peasant found it in 1820 on the island of Milos. At the time of discovery, the figure was broken into two large fragments. In her left hand the goddess held an apple, and with her right hand she held the falling robe. Realizing the historical significance of this ancient sculpture, officers of the French navy ordered the marble statue to be removed from the island. As Venus was being dragged over the rocks to the waiting ship, a fight broke out between the porters and both arms were broken off. The tired sailors flatly refused to return and look for the remaining parts.

The Beautiful Imperfection of the Nike of Samothrace

Nike of Samothrace", II century BC.

The statue of Nike was found on the island of Samothrace in 1863 by Charles Champoiseau, a French consul and archaeologist. A statue carved from golden Parian marble on the island crowned the altar of sea deities. Researchers believe that an unknown sculptor created Nike in the 2nd century BC as a sign of Greek naval victories. The hands and head of the goddess are irretrievably lost. Attempts were made repeatedly to restore the original position of the goddess’s hands. It is assumed that right hand, raised up, held a cup, wreath or forge. It is interesting that multiple attempts to restore the hands of the statue were unsuccessful - they all spoiled the masterpiece. These failures force us to admit: Nika is beautiful just like that, perfect in her imperfection.

Mystical Bronze Horseman

Etienne Falconet, Monument to Peter I, 1768–1770

The Bronze Horseman is a monument surrounded by mystical and otherworldly stories. One of the legends associated with him says that during Patriotic War In 1812, Alexander I ordered the removal of especially valuable works of art from the city, including the monument to Peter I. At this time, a certain Major Baturin secured a meeting with the Tsar’s personal friend, Prince Golitsyn, and told him that he, Baturin, was haunted by the same dream . He sees himself on Senate Square. Peter's face turns. The horseman rides off his cliff and heads through the streets of St. Petersburg to Kamenny Island, where Alexander I then lived. The horseman enters the courtyard of the Kamenoostrovsky Palace, from which the sovereign comes out to meet him. “Young man, what have you brought my Russia to,” Peter the Great tells him, “but as long as I’m in place, my city has nothing to fear!” Then the rider turns back, and the “heavy, ringing gallop” is heard again. Struck by Baturin’s story, Prince Golitsyn conveyed the dream to the sovereign. As a result, Alexander I reversed his decision to evacuate the monument. The monument remained in place.

Museums around the world are open to everyone who wishes to become acquainted with the art of sculpture. Figures of people and animals were made in different centuries from different materials. Among the most famous sculptures are statues of gods and ancient sculptures. What inspired the masters and what are the most famous sculptures?

Famous antique sculptures

"Venus de Milo"

Scientists have determined only approximately the time of creation. In their opinion, Venus was sculpted in one hundred and thirtieth BC. e. Today it is on display at the Louvre.

"David"

The date of creation of this sculpture is one thousand four hundred and forty. “David” is shown at the Florence National Museum.

"Discus thrower"

The most famous statues of gods

Statue of Christ the Savior

This statue is sacred symbol Brazil. The figure of Christ rises seven hundred meters above sea level. Its height is thirty-eight meters. The sculpture was erected in nineteen thirty-one with donations from the population and the church.

Maitreya Buddha statue

It is known that work on it began back in seven hundred and thirteen and lasted ninety years. Numerous tourists who come to China are eager to see the statue of God, which for about a thousand years was considered the tallest in the world.

Shiva statue

Other recognizable statues

Moai

One of the expeditions discovered a gigantic unfinished statue there. Its weight is approximately two hundred and seventy tons, and its height is twenty meters.

"Manneken Pis"

The Bronze Boy has been kidnapped multiple times. Copies appeared in its place. From time to time, the statue is dressed in different costumes, depending on the memorable date or holiday.

Great Sphinx

The most famous sculpture in the world

Born in 1880, he received a large order. The work was to be called “The Gates of Hell.” It was assumed that the author would create several sculptures that would be installed at the entrance to the museum. This project remained unfinished, however, Rodin decided to make a number of sculptures large. Thanks to this, the world saw The Thinker. The brilliant master managed to accurately convey the deep thought process of a man sitting on a stone.
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When talking about what the most famous sculpture in the world is, it is impossible to be specific. The fact is that throughout the history of mankind there have been many geniuses, each of whom left their mark. But there are statues that have delighted people for centuries. They deserve attention.

Sculptures are usually kept in museums. Some of them remain in the place where the author built them. And the smallest part is in private collections. In fact, they should not be anyone's, as they represent a world heritage. And everyone who wants to look at them must have access to this.

Venus Capitoline

The most famous sculpture in the world, which was created thousands of years ago, is the Capitoline Venus. It was made of marble in the 2nd century. Its prototype is considered to be the statue of Aphrodite, which was created back in the 4th century BC.

It depicts a woman covering her nakedness with her hands. The sculptor managed to convey all the embarrassment that the model experienced (if there was one). Therefore, she is also called “modest Venus.” Next to the woman stands a vessel on which her robe is folded.

The sculpture was found quite late, in 1667. Then in 1754 he donated it. There is a widespread belief that this particular sculpture of Venus is considered the most beloved, since it fully reflects her grace, elegance and beauty.

David Donatello

The most famous sculpture in the world, the creation of which dates back to the Renaissance, is David, made by the master Donatello. She gained her popularity quite quickly. This is due to the fact that in the Renaissance it was the first nude statue.

The sculpture is made of marble and depicts a young man holding a sword in his hand. The head of Goliath can be seen under his feet. But the pretentious pose shows the author's mockery. And David doesn’t hold his weapon like a warrior at all. He seems to be leaning on it like a cane.

Starting with the sculpture in question, Donatello’s work acquired certain features. Further, he created sculptures only in his own style, where there was a certain homogeneity and gothic style. The author's subsequent works were also popular, but it was David who caused a stir among fans and critics. Therefore, it can be considered Donatello's masterpiece.

Michelangelo's rebel and dying slaves

The great Michelangelo did not leave humanity without masterpieces. His most famous sculpture is the Dying Slave. However, before the creator began sculpting, he did a lot of work.

In 1505 Michelangelo began his new project- creation of the tomb of Pope Julius II. Initially he planned to decorate the mausoleum too big amount statues (about 40), but his plans were not destined to come true. The work took a long time (until 1545), but there were much fewer sculptures, and until today only three arrived. The foundation of the tomb is the mighty Moses, who had titanic strength and temperament.

Two slaves were to be placed on either side of her. The first, rebel, which depicts the desire of a young and strong youth to break his bonds. The second is a dying slave. In this case, the young man just hung helplessly in his bonds.

Of these two statues, it is impossible to single out just one. They're both wonderful.

Voltaire Jean Baptiste Pigalle

The list of “the most famous sculptures in the world” must include Voltaire’s Nude. It was created by Jean Baptiste Pigalle, and it created too much hype around itself.

Firstly, the sculpture looked too realistic. For that time (1776) this was a real challenge to critics. Pigalle created this sculptural portrait over the course of 6 years. First he completed the body; an old soldier became his model. Then he transferred the face from the bust.

Secondly, the statue did not display any beauty or sophistication at all. It depicts a flabby old body with sagging skin, and a mocking and ironic smile adorns the face.

When the sculpture was exhibited at the Paris Salon, high society refused to accept it, a huge scandal arose. They forgot about the master's work. Only in the 20th century was it remembered, and the masterpiece was given its due - Pigalle was appreciated.

Bronze Horseman of Falcons

If you remember the most famous sculptures of Russia, the first thing that comes to mind is Generally this. But thanks to the work of Pushkin, it is known under a different name. It was created by three French sculptors, whose head was Falcons. At the end of the work, he carved words in Latin on the statue stating that the monument was his brainchild.

In total, the sculpture was created over 15 years. According to the author's plan, it was supposed to reflect the power of the Russian emperor over nature and history, his will and talent as a reformer. I must say that it was a success.

Unique feature Bronze Horseman is that it was cast completely, so it is impossible to find joints or welds on its surface. And also the rock on which it stands is the largest monolith ever moved by man.

Today everyone can look at the Bronze Horseman, which is located next to St. Isaac's Cathedral.

Rodin's Thinker

The most famous, as well as the most recognizable, is located in the Parisian museum of the same name. This is the popular "Thinker". Inspired by The Divine Comedy. Accordingly, if it were not for the talented Dante, “The Thinker” would not have existed.

In 1880, Rodin received an order for a large-scale work called “The Gates of Hell.” According to his plan, it will include several individual sculptures. The project itself was supposed to decorate the entrance to the museum. But the work was not finished. However, Rodin decided to enlarge some of the sculptures and present them to the world separately.

This is how The Thinker appeared. The sculpture depicts a man frozen in a sitting position on a stone. His persistent thought process is literally visible to everyone who looks at him - the author managed to convey the emotional coloring so reliably.

Chicago and Picasso

If we consider the large-scale and famous sculptures of the world, we cannot ignore the one that has not even received a name. It was installed in Chicago and is a kind of gift to this city from the master Picasso. By the way, its name is exactly that: “nameless sculpture”.

In 1963 American company I ordered models of the statue from Picasso, which were ready in 2 years. After the project was approved, construction began. It was funded by two charitable companies, and the entire process cost $352,000. The weight of the structure is 162 tons, and the height is just over 15 meters.

The sculptor himself was offered 100 thousand dollars for planning and processing the project. However, Picasso refused; he insisted that he wanted to donate this structure to the city.

Two forms of Henry Moore

Perhaps the most famous sculpture in the world by Henry Moore is his “Two Forms”. It was completed in 1936. Moore himself is a British sculptor who is clearly the greatest master of the 20th century.

"Two Shapes" is considered a descendant of "The Kiss". However, they are more elegant, they show notes of modernity, or, as the creator himself called it, “new aesthetics.”

The sculpture is perfectly named because it truly embodies two forms. They seem to complement each other. But they will also not be meaningless if we consider each form separately. This is what Henry is all about; he also exudes mystery and aloofness, as do all his works.

Unfortunately, there are no works by Moore in Russian museums, but exhibitions are often held here. Therefore, it is still possible to get acquainted with his art and technique.

Conclusion

All famous sculptures and their authors differ from each other. But only one thing can be said for sure about each of them. They all gave the world a lot of new things. Art has always existed. Moreover, many talented masters were not accepted at the time. Their masterpieces had to wait centuries to glorify their creator. But in any case, sculpture always found its audience, its recognition.

Not all famous sculptures are listed here. Photos of many masterpieces can be seen on thematic websites. However, they are not able to reflect all the sophistication and beauty that the sculptors wanted to convey to the people. Therefore, if you have the opportunity to touch the beautiful, you should take advantage of it and look at the sculptures of talented masters in person.