Phoenix
1944
Ossip Zadkine
The phoenix is a mythical bird rising from the flames. The ancient Greeks believed that this fabulous creature was capable of being reborn again and again from its own ashes. Ossip Zadkine has made the phoenix a symbol of France’s revival after the misery of WWII.
Details
- Plan number: B24
- Zone: Motion
- Title: Phoenix
- Creator: Ossip Zadkine
- Date: 1944
- Material: bronze
- Acquisition: purchase, 1952
- Object number: MID.B.033
The phoenix spreads its wings, pointing its open beak towards the sky. The artist has used sinuous forms to reveal despair as well as strength and hope.
Rebirth or resurrection completes the cycle of life and death. The prospect of rebirth in another body or place gives comfort. Death is not an end point, but a phase in an endless circle that is constantly in motion.
Ossip Zadkine was a French artist with Belarusian roots. He harbored great admiration for Auguste Rodin, and was very interested in non-Western art and Cubism. At first, he remained as close as possible to the form of the material, often wood or stone. From 1927 onward, his works took on a more complex structure and became more dynamic and baroque.
From the same artist
Ossip Zadkine
This imposing figure is Orpheus. The Greek myths describe how, with his enchanting voice and accompanied by the lyre, he is able to tame wild nature and even unruly human beings. He is both a triumphant and tragic figure, for he loses his beloved Eurydice by looking backward as they leave the underworld.
Ossip Zadkine
The power and volume of this reclining man contrast with the graceful, organic drawing on the figure's skin. As a Jew, it is not safe for Ossip Zadkine in Europe during the war years. He flees to the United States in 1941 and stays there until 1945. With 'The Dreamer in the Forest' the artist expresses his homesickness for Europe, and for the people he left behind.
This artwork on the map
Easily navigate to Phoenix by Ossip Zadkine and add it to your planned route.