Homo, Composition in Metal is a three-part wall installation by Oskar Schlemmer, which represents a triad of human figures through line in space. Formed and cast in metal – the first wire sculpture to be conceived as a spatial installation –, the work explores the relationship between the human body, geometry, science, and architectural space in an interplay of line, balance, light, shadow, and proportion. Schlemmer perceived the human body as the measure of all things within the geometric and cosmic order. As he wrote in his diary, ‘Humanizing = releasing from abstract, geometric rigidity. “bringing to light,” [...] consistently striving to capture the inner image, the visions’.
Envisioned by Schlemmer 10 years prior at the Bauhaus, the installation was commissioned for a doctor’s house in 1930. This version, which is one of an edition of seven, has been exhibited internationally since 1988. Installation view at Art Basel Unlimited June 2026.
Envisioned by Schlemmer 10 years prior at the Bauhaus, the installation was commissioned for a doctor’s house in 1930. This version, which is one of an edition of seven, has been exhibited internationally since 1988. Installation view at Art Basel Unlimited June 2026.
Photo and © C. Raman Schlemmer
Oskar Schlemmer
Abstrakte Figur, Freiplastik G |Abstract Figure, Sculpture in the Round G,1921/1923
Abstrakte Figur, Freiplastik G |Abstract Figure, Sculpture in the Round G,1921/1923
Schlemmer transformed the dynamic essence of dance into static forms through
geometric abstraction, conveying movement and spatial interaction. As sculptural forms in The Triadic Ballet, the sculpture exemplifies his pursuit of movement and abstraction. The interplay of concave and convex surfaces, along with the contrasts of light and shadow, generates a sense of dynamism.
geometric abstraction, conveying movement and spatial interaction. As sculptural forms in The Triadic Ballet, the sculpture exemplifies his pursuit of movement and abstraction. The interplay of concave and convex surfaces, along with the contrasts of light and shadow, generates a sense of dynamism.
© Photo Archive C. Raman Schlemmer
