Arthur Waagen (active 1860-1910), Allegory Of Industry, C. 1890

Arthur Waagen (active between 1860 and 1910), Allegory of Industry, around 1890. Brown patinated zinc cast on a cast base. 61 cm (total height) x 28 cm (width) x 28 cm (depth), weight 6.7 kg. Signed “[Arthur] Waagen.” on the plinth and inscribed “INDUSTRY” on the cartouche.
- rubbed and slightly stained in places, cartouche loosened, overall in good condition for its age




- The Power of Progress -


The strong blacksmith holds a blank and a hammer in his hand. Next to him are an anvil and a bucket of water, illustrating the craftsman's ability to shape the blank into any form. However, the blacksmith does not only represent the craft of forging. As the cogwheel below him makes clear, he also illustrates the "New Iron Age" of industrialization. His broad stride, accompanied by a sweeping arm movement, embodies progress. His foot extends far beyond the pedestal, symbolizing the step into the future that his gaze anticipates.
The craftsman has not become an obsolete figure, but the new machinist, whose skill and strength keep the machines running. The word "industry" should also be understood in this way. It refers not only to the industry of industrialization, but above all to the literal meaning of the words "diligence" and "effort".
For a zinc casting, the sculpture shows an enormous amount of detail, especially in the tendrils on the base. But also the leather of the apron, the different fabrics of the shirt and the trousers and last but not least the body and the physiognomy appear extremely lifelike.