Edward Wittig (On the Possible Paths of Sculpture)

Abstract

Originally published in Russian in 1913, this essay considers the work of the Polish sculptor Edward Wittig (1879–1941) in relation to the broad history of sculpture from antiquity to the early twentieth century. The essay is divided into three parts. Part I reflects on “possible paths of sculpture” through Rodin and the Greco-Roman tradition of sculpture. Part II considers Aristide Maillol, the influence of Egyptian art, and Edward Wittig. Part III further reflects on modern sculptors, such as Constantin Meunier, and Egyptian sculpture in relation to the cult of the machine and modern clothing.