Igor MITORAJ

PERSEUS
Bronze, 36.7 cm high, travertine (base), pedestal height. 46.5 cm
Signed: Mitoraj; numbered: C205/1000HC
Igor Mitoraj's sculpture "Perseus" is a characteristic example of his work, in which the artist combines his fascination with antiquity with modern reflection on the human condition. The bronze torso, deprived of its head and limbs, is reminiscent of classical depictions of Greek heroes, but the deliberate mutilation and fragmentation give it a completely different dimension. Instead of the full harmony and ideal body, Mitoraj shows a damaged, incomplete figure, bearing traces of cracks and geometric marks etched into the surface. Perseus, the mythological victor and symbol of strength, appears here as a fragile and wounded figure, which is part of Mitoraj's characteristic motif of the decline of ideals and the passing of beauty. The patina and roughness of the bronze further enhance the impression of an ancient artifact excavated from the ruins, while creating a work that is contemporary in expression. It's a sculpture that doesn't so much celebrate heroism as pose the question of its meaning in a world where every ideal is being destroyed.
As the author himself admitted: "I don't like sculpture that, when you look at it, you see everything at once; you have to discover it yourself and take a long time to get to the bottom of it. I think art should intrigue the viewer. To be a mystery. It can even keep its secret forever. Let's not forget that the Greek concept of beauty also spoke of something good that positively affects the soul. Today, in art, beauty and goodness are considered dangerous and actually unknown. The question is, why is it easier to shock with misery and tragedy? Let's shock with beauty, but it's very difficult!".
Asking price 20000
Estimate 30000 - 40000 ask about the object