The Thank-Offering

Artist Benno Schotz (Arensburg, Estonia, 1891 - 1984)

Date1939

Mediumred sandstone on art gallery base

ClassificationsSculptures

DimensionsOverall: Height: 83 cm, Width: 33 cm, Depth: 33 cm
Plinth Size: Height: 65 cm, Width: 65 cm, Depth: 32 cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 1950 with income from the Macdonald Bequest.

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG004690

Keywords

About MeBenno Schotz was born in Estonia, of Jewish parents, but spent most of his life in Scotland. Whilst working as an engineering draughtsman in Glasgow, Schotz attended evening classes in sculpture. As a portrait sculptor, Schotz rapidly rose to prominence.

A bronze version of 'The Thank-Offering' is in the University of Glasgow Art Collections. It was more common for Schotz to model his sculptures in clay before casting them in bronze. These have a rough surface, calling to mind the work of Auguste Rodin and Jacob Epstein.

A handful of carvings in wood and stone do exist, of which 'The Thank-Offering' is an outstanding example. Smooth contours and a roundness of form give a monumentality to the mother and child figure group.

More About Me

Collections Wall

This mother holds her infant protectively close to her body whilst also raising the child up as if in celebration for the miracle of life - a symbol of thanks, warmth and love.

Exhibitions

Paradise Lost