Melusine I. 1947.
Bronze with brown patina.
With the monogram in ligature on the base behind the left foot. One of five casts made by the art foundry Barth, Berlin. Height: 54.5 cm (21.4 in).

Cast in 1959, probably for Otto Gerson, New York. Cast during the artist's lifetime. A total of 11 casts of this bronze exist.
This is the first depiction of Melusine as a standing figure in a robe. In the same year, a seated Melusine in a robe was created, and in 1949, a standing nude, “Melusine III.” [AW].

• Lifetime cast.
• Simplification of gesture and form are characteristic of Gerhard Marcks' oeuvre.
• The sculptor evokes contemplation in the restrained movement of a mythical figure from a medieval legend.
• Alongside Barlach, Lehmbruck, and Kolbe, Gerhard Marcks is one of the most important German sculptors of the past century.

PROVENANCE: Otto Gerson Collection, New York.
Marborough-Gerson Gallery, New York.
Private collection (acquired from the above in 1980).
Private collection, southern Germany (acquired from the above).

LITERATURE: Günter Busch, Martina Rudloff, Gerhard Marcks. Das plastische Werk, Berlin 1977, CR no. 494, p. 338.

In good condition. Minimal rubbing and slight dust accumulation in the recesses. Small traces of oxidation in places.