Large-scale aluminium sculpture depicting a stylized bird from the Ucello series. This work combines the expression of human strength and fragility through the prism of nature, referring to the artist's war experiences. The presented form is maintained in a synthesized, abstract style with outstretched wings, suggesting flight that is nonetheless trapped on a pedestal. The sculpture aims to provoke reflection and leaves a broad field for interpretation, remaining a mysterious and symbolic form.

Portrait of the Creator

  • Artist

    Magdalena Abakanowicz

  • Date of birth and death

    20 June 1930 – 20 April 2017

  • Natinality

    Polish

  • Style

    Postminimalism, Fiber Art, Sculpture, Constructivism influences

  • Significant works

    Agora (2006), Birds of Knowledge of Good and Evil (2001), Abakans (1960s–70s), Crowd I (1986–87)

Information about the work

  • Year:

    2009

  • Execution technique:

    aluminium

  • Location:

    Bydgoszcz, private collection; Poland, private collection; artist's collection

  • Theme:

    naturalism, bird symbolism, flight, fragility and strength of the human condition, abstraction

Internal Narrative and Creative Framework

  • Inner Narrative

    The symbolism of the bird expresses the tension between freedom and captivity, flight and limitations, reflecting the artist's war experiences and existential reflections.

The key to interpreting the work

It is worth observing the contrast between the bird's form and the weight and stability of the pedestal, interpreting the sculpture as a metaphor for the human fate and condition.

Auction information

  • Estimated price:

    800 000 - 900 000 zł

  • Auction price:

    750 000 zł

See other works by this artist

Figures – Black Mannequins, 1972

  • Artist: Magdalena Abakanowicz
  • Year: 1972
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Standing Figure, 1998

  • Artist: Magdalena Abakanowicz
  • Year: 1998
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Papillon de nuit, 1977

  • Artist: Magdalena Abakanowicz
  • Year: 1977
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Bambini, 1998-1999 (83 child figures)

  • Artist: Magdalena Abakanowicz
  • Year: 1998-1999
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Three Walking Figures (Vancouver Ancestors), 2006

  • Artist: Magdalena Abakanowicz
  • Year: 2006
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Walking Figure (Vancouver Ancestors), 2006

  • Artist: Magdalena Abakanowicz
  • Year: 2006
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Steel Embryology, 2007 - 2008

  • Artist: Magdalena Abakanowicz
  • Year: 2007-2008
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Furgon II, 1993

  • Artist: Magdalena Abakanowicz
  • Year: 1993
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