Sepulchral Figure 1913

What are your first impressions of this sculpture by the French artist Henri Gaudier-Brzeska? What emotions do you feel when looking at the piece? Born in 1891, Henri Gaudier’s style has been described as rough and primitive. The sculptor had no formal training, yet after moving to London he became a founding member of Vorticism. This movement, similar to Cubism, was characterised by geometric bold lines and simplified, abstract shapes. Gaudier adopted the name Gaudier-Brzeska as a sign of devotion to his partner, the Polish writer Sophie Brzeska. This sculpture – ‘Sepulchral Figure’ (1913) – depicts a single nude figure, seated on a solid square base or plinth. She is hunched over and hugs her raised knee. One arm is pressed to her forehead in a universal expression of mourning. The tone is contemplative and mournful. The form of the figure is simple and there is very little detail. This was achieved through Gaudier-Brzeska’s technique of direct carving. Rather than planning the exact shape of the completed sculpture through preparatory models, the artist carved out shapes into the raw material itself. Originally titled ‘Grief’, the sculpture was based on life drawings. ✏️ Gaudier-Brzeska was often forced to use off-cuts of stone, as he could not afford large blocks. ‘Sepulchral Figure’ is carved from bath stone. Its texture is rough, and Gaudier-Brzeska has kept the toolmarks visible. Take a look at the chipped lines on the head, which suggest strands of hair. This emphasises the act of creation, lending the artwork an earthy and authentic energy. The irregular, bumpy surface of the sculpture contrasts with the smoothly polished appearance of classical statues. Henri Gaudier-Brzeska was killed in action during the First World War, at the age of just 23. Does this change your interpretation of this melancholic sculpture?