Sculpture made of Untersberg marble

THE SYMBOLISM

In its symbolism, the sculpture depicts Diana, the goddess of the hunt, with a stag. This reveals a clear reference to classical mythology. Taking a closer look at the sculpture, however, we can see the subtle changes that the artist has made with regard to the symbolic meaning. In contrast to classical depictions, which show Diana as an active huntress, drawing the bow and shooting game, he renders her in a resting position. The stag, which does not seem to be in danger, is also seen lying on the ground.

In this way, the artist has created a peaceful scene. To intensify this expression, Diana’s left hand is placed, almost caressingly, on the stag’s back. Consequently the positions of the huntress and the hunted are dissolved, and the two appear to be united. In addition, the arrow, used for killing, is broken and has thus lost its function. Diana, the goddess of the hunt, has become a peaceful woman and her introverted gaze suggests a calm, contemplative state of mind.

The artist reveals to us what he intends to express with the broken arrow in Diana’s hand, the most irritating symbol in this work: the arrow (also as a symbol of love, as in the case of Cupid) in its broken form represents the disharmonious, broken relationship of modern man to nature.

All in all, the drama of the hunt has been completely suspended in the sculpture. It radiates an almost meditative tranquility.

Text: Thomas Redl