Knut Jern sculpture

This rare bronze sculpture by Swedish artist Knut Jern, created in 1926 and cast by the esteemed Otto Meyers Foundry, is a fine example of early 20th-century figurative bronze work. Executed with a quiet elegance and precise craftsmanship, the piece captures a moment of serene introspection through the expressive posture of a kneeling figure.

The subject is rendered in a naturalistic style, kneeling with the torso upright and both hands raised in a gentle, open gesture suggestive of prayer, offering, or admiration. The anatomical detailing is refined and proportionate, with a soft modeling of the limbs and torso that reflects both physical grace and inner emotion. The smooth surfaces and subtle musculature speak to Jern’s sculptural skill and his interest in the human form as a vessel for symbolic expression.

The sculpture is mounted on a solid black granite base that contrasts beautifully with the dark patina of the bronze. The polished stone surface enhances the verticality of the figure while grounding the composition in a minimalist geometric platform. The granite is well-finished, with only minor wear at the corners and edges, consistent with its age.

The bronze itself features a dark, slightly lustrous patina that has developed a soft sheen over time. The casting is of high quality, with crisp contours and a smooth surface finish, likely achieved through careful chasing and patination processes by Otto Meyers Foundry—a renowned Swedish foundry known for its collaborations with leading Scandinavian sculptors.

The artist’s signature, Knut Jern 1926, is inscribed directly into the lower portion of the bronze base, alongside the foundry mark, confirming both authorship and provenance. This direct engraving contributes to the historical and collectible significance of the piece.

Measuring 20 cm in length, 10 cm in width, and 24 cm in height (7.9 x 3.9 x 9.4 inches), the sculpture is compact yet commanding in presence—suitable for display in both private collections and curated interior settings. Its scale allows for intimate engagement with the figure’s expressive pose and subtle detailing.

Knut Jern (1893–1953) was a Finnish-Swedish sculptor known for his refined portraiture and figurative compositions. His work often bridges neoclassical form with modernist sensitivity, and this sculpture reflects those influences in both its form and emotive content. As a rare and dated example of his early work, produced by one of Sweden’s most respected foundries, this piece holds both artistic and historical significance in the context of Nordic bronze sculpture.