The work is a continuation of an earlier version featuring a seated figure. Changed into a standing, upright, and more proud figure in expression, it reflects the artist's evolution both artistically and personally. The theme is the condition and psychophysical nature of man. The artist emphasized the opposition of identity and individuation against the blurring of humanity. The monumental figure stands by a large wheel symbolizing the cycle of life, history, and the strength of human existence. The work fits into the realm of sculpture of human identity and individual emotions.

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:

    1993

  • Execution technique:

    patinated iron, jute, resin

  • Location:

    Warsaw, private collection; artist's own collection

  • Theme:

    human existence, identity, individuality, opposition to anonymity

Internal Narrative and Creative Framework

  • Inner Narrative

    The work shows the paradox of human identity, anonymity, and the strength of the individual. The symbolism of the wheel and the figure emphasizes the cyclicality of life and internal and social transformations.

The key to interpreting the work

The work should be interpreted as a universal story about the condition of man and his relationship to the world, remembering the continuous struggle between consciousness and emotions, between the individual and society.

Auction information

  • Estimated price:

    600 000 - 800 000 zł

  • Auction price:

    650 000 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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Bird from the Ucello series, 2009

  • Artist: Magdalena Abakanowicz
  • Year: 2009
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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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