Thule

Anthon Hoornweg's bronze sculpture of an owl, titled ‘Thule’, is a masterful representation of his affinity for capturing the essence of his subjects. The sculpture, viewed from different angles, exudes a dignified stillness and a contemplative aura that is characteristic of the real bird.

Hoornweg's expertise in working with bronze is evident in the way he has shaped the owl's form, from the curvature of its back to the detailed texturing of its feet. The sculpture is robust, yet there's a subtlety in its posture and the turn of the head that conveys a lifelike quality. The owl's gaze is introspective, almost as if lost in thought, a feature that Hoornweg has rendered with a softness that belies the hardness of the medium.

The patina of the bronze lends a rich, tactile quality to the owl, with its warm, earthy tones echoing the natural colouring of the bird's feathers. The light plays across the sculpture, highlighting the contours of the owl's body and creating a dynamic interplay of highlights and shadows that give the impression of a creature at rest, yet fully aware of its surroundings.

Hoornweg's ability to elicit emotion and character from bronze is what likely draws a large and international circle of art lovers to his work. His sculptures, particularly this owl, are not static representations; they are embodiments of the animals themselves, full of character and a refined beauty that transcends the material from which they are made.

The three images offer a comprehensive view that showcases the artist's skill in creating a form that is compelling from every angle. The sculpture is not just a testament to Hoornweg's talent but also to his passion for the creatures he immortalizes in bronze, capturing not just their physical appearance but also the spirit and poise that make them fascinating to behold.