Albert Laessle, Polar Bear Standing, ca. 1916, bronze on marble base, 3 3⁄8 x 4 5⁄8 x 2 3⁄8 in. (8.5 x 11.7 x 6.1 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle, 1972.167.87
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Artwork Details
- Title
- Polar Bear Standing
- Artist
- Founder
- Roman Bronze Works
- Date
- ca. 1916
- Location
- Dimensions
- 3 3⁄8 x 4 5⁄8 x 2 3⁄8 in. (8.5 x 11.7 x 6.1 cm)
- Credit Line
- Gift of the heirs of Albert Laessle: Mrs. Albertine de Bempt Laessle, Mr. Albert M. Laessle and Mr. Paul Laessle
- Mediums Description
- bronze on marble base
- Classifications
- Subjects
- Animal — bear
- Study — sculpture model
- Object Number
- 1972.167.87
Artwork Description
Albert Laessle enjoyed working with animals so much that he eventually bought a studio in the country where he could keep his own. His subject matter was not always taken as seriously as that of other sculptors; even as an animal sculptor his choice of insects, lizards, frogs, and snails was uncommon among professional sculptors of his day. But it is precisely that uncommon element that makes Laessle’s work special and continues to give it a unique, imaginative spark. Unlike some artists who chose to sculpt animals for their decorative value, Laessle chose them for their expressive potential.