German Post War Hede Bühl Small guardian. 1976. hollow bronze with black patina. 16 x 21 x 9.5 cm. With monogram stamp and incised "E.A." on the base. - Partially with slight rubbing, in the recesses with slight dusting and somewhat oxidised. Good overall. Outstanding casting with expressively structured surface design. Kraft 1976.3 - One of only 3 examples "Épreuve d'artiste" in bronze. - Cast in the Kittl foundry, Düsseldorf. - The compact, block-like figure of the Little Watchman stands still and attentive in the room - anonymous, faceless, thrown back on itself. With this work, Hede Bühl formulates her central theme: the human body as a symbol of protection, isolation and existential presence. The surface of the bronze is expressively structured, fine irregularities and the patination lend the sculpture an idiosyncratic liveliness. This lively material effect contrasts with the block-like form and reinforces the impression of inner tension that is typical of Bühl: Although her figures appear withdrawn and closed off, the "injured" surface allows an existential depth to shine through, which is exemplary of Bühl's exploration of the human body and its relationship between vulnerability and resistance, solidification and inner movement. Bronze with black patina. 16 x 21 x 9.5 cm. With monogram stamp and incised 'E.A.' on the base. - Partially with slight rubbing, in the recesses with slight dusting and somewhat oxidised. Good overall. Excellent cast with expressively structured surface finish. - One of only 3 copies 'Épreuve d'artiste' in bronze. - Cast in the Kittl foundry, Düsseldorf. - The compact, monolithic figure of the Little Watchman remains still and attentive in the room - anonymous, faceless, focussed on itself. With this work, Hede Bühl articulates her central motif: the human body as a symbol of protection, isolation and existential presence. The surface of the sculpture is expressively structured, fine irregularities and the patination add an unconventional vitality to the sculpture. This vivid effect of the material contrasts with the block-like form and reinforces the impression of inner tension that is typical of Bühl: Although her figures appear withdrawn and reserved, the 'injured' surface allows an existential depth to shine through, which exemplifies Bühl's exploration of the human body and its oscillation between vulnerability and resistance, rigidity and inner movement. 2400