Young Woman, who Plaits her Hair 1603 - 1662

This is a small bronze sculpture, "Young Woman, who Plaits her Hair," created by Leonhard Kern. Note the subtle, almost melancholic affect achieved through the figure's posture. Her eyes are obscured by her hand and hair, drawing our attention to the play of light on the bronze surface. The composition invites us to consider the tension between revelation and concealment. The woman is nude, yet her gesture suggests a desire for privacy. Kern masterfully uses the texture of the bronze to create a sense of movement. The contrast between the smooth skin and the detailed plait of hair adds depth to the piece. Consider how Kern employs classical ideals of beauty while introducing a sense of interiority. This tension between classical form and psychological depth destabilizes traditional notions of beauty. The sculpture invites ongoing interpretation, reflecting the complexities of human experience.