Henry Moore (1898-1986)

Through the warrior subject, Moore engaged in a legacy of sculptural imagery dating to antiquity. The inclusion of a shield and suggestion to the helmet are clear hallmarks of Ancient Greece. This direct reference to Greco-Roman art is a complete contrast to Moore's early sculptures where he deliberately circumvented any reference to classical models, preferring instead to engage with the vitality of tribal art forms from Africa and South America. The Maquette for the Goslar Warrior was begun when the artist discovered his nomination for a prestigious art prize awarded by the town of Goslar in northern Germany. The prize was a commission for a monumental work. Moore visited the town in 1975 to view potential sites and consider which subject may be appropriate. It was then he decided to utilize the new warrior figure which was currently in production. He then changed the subject’s name to Goslar Warrior in deference to the small historic town.