Leonhard Kern

German, 1588 - 1662

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The sculpture features a nude female figure seated on angular, block-like steps. She is in a relaxed pose, with her left leg resting on a lower step and braiding her long hair, which falls over her shoulder. The material is a rich brown color resembling carved wood. The figure has delicate facial expressions and detailed hair, giving a sense of refinement and realism. The sculpture's compact form and smooth surface suggest attention to detail, and the seated position on geometric blocks creates a contrast between the organic body and rigid steps.
Leonhard Kern, Lust, second quarter 17th century, fruitwood, possibly pear, Gift of Robert H. Smith/Robert H. Smith Collection, 2022.181.75

Lust

Leonhard Kern · second quarter 17th century · fruitwood, possibly pear ·  Accession ID  2022.181.75

The sculpture shows a seated female figure with a dignified posture. She is nude, with a towel draped over her lap and one hand resting upon it. The figure has well-defined musculature and a serene expression on her face. The sculpture is made from a material resembling terracotta, giving it a warm, reddish-brown hue. This color accentuates the intricate details and contours of the figure's body. The sculpture is placed on a rectangular base, elevating her slightly above eye level for better appreciation of the carving from different angles.
Leonhard Kern, Avarice, second quarter 17th century, fruitwood, possibly pear, Gift of Robert H. Smith/Robert H. Smith Collection, 2022.181.76

Avarice

Leonhard Kern · second quarter 17th century · fruitwood, possibly pear ·  Accession ID  2022.181.76

The sculpture depicts a nude male figure crouching with his knees bent and hands behind him. His head is turned to the left with a slightly pained or strained expression. The sculpture is made of a dark material, likely bronze, giving it a polished, dark brown color with subtle variations that accentuate the muscular details of the figure. The material reflects light, highlighting the contours and features of the man's body. The figure rests on a rectangular, stepped base that is also of the same brown material. The proportions are realistic, and the details such as the curly hair and defined musculature add a lifelike quality to the sculpture.
Leonhard Kern, Kneeling Youth with Bound Hands, second quarter 17th century, fruitwood, possibly pear, Gift of Robert H. Smith/Robert H. Smith Collection, 2022.181.74

Kneeling Youth with Bound Hands

Leonhard Kern · second quarter 17th century · fruitwood, possibly pear ·  Accession ID  2022.181.74

The sculpture depicts a male figure sitting on a square pedestal. He is semi-nude, with defined musculature visible on his torso, arms, and legs. The man appears to be of mature age, with short, wavy hair and a contemplative expression on his face. The sculpture is crafted from a dark bronze material. The pedestal is rectangular with a slightly projecting top, and the man is seated with his right leg crossed under his left leg, which dangles off the edge. His hands rest on the top surface of the pedestal.
Leonhard Kern, The Money Counter (Geldzähler), 1630-1650, bronze, Gift of Robert H. Smith/Robert H. Smith Collection, 2022.181.65

The Money Counter (Geldzähler)

Leonhard Kern · 1630-1650 · bronze ·  Accession ID  2022.181.65

The sculpture depicts a nude male figure in a dynamic, forward-leaning pose with his left leg bent at the knee and right leg extended behind him. He holds a sphere or ball in his hands as if preparing to throw it. The sculpture has a rich brown color, a smooth surface highlighting musculature, and anatomical details, emphasizing a lifelike quality. Positioned on a rectangular base, it shows the left side of the figure, displaying detailed work on the hair and facial features. The representation captures the strength and grace of the human form in motion.
Leonhard Kern, Gymnast Throwing a Sphere ('The Bowler'), second quarter 17th century, fruitwood, possibly pear, Gift of Robert H. Smith/Robert H. Smith Collection, 2022.181.73

Gymnast Throwing a Sphere ('The Bowler')

Leonhard Kern · second quarter 17th century · fruitwood, possibly pear ·  Accession ID  2022.181.73

The sculpture shows a nude woman kneeling and holding a small urn or pot. The figure has detailed features, including a calm facial expression and short, styled hair. It is primarily a reddish-brown color, resting on a simple, dark-colored rectangular base with slightly beveled edges. The presentation is classical or traditional in style, with realistic proportions and detailed craftsmanship.
Leonhard Kern, Psyche, second quarter 17th century, boxwood, Gift of Robert H. Smith/Robert H. Smith Collection, 2022.181.77

Psyche

Leonhard Kern · second quarter 17th century · boxwood ·  Accession ID  2022.181.77

The sculpture depicts a standing nude female figure holding chains attached to two dogs. The woman is looking downwards towards one of the dogs. The sculpture is made from a smooth, ivory-colored material with a polished surface. Relative to us, the sculpture is small and detailed, capturing intricate elements such as the woman's facial features, hair, and the muscles and posture of the dogs around the woman's feet.
Leonhard Kern, Diana with Her Hounds, 17th century, ivory, Gift of Robert H. Smith/Robert H. Smith Collection, 2022.181.78

Diana with Her Hounds

Leonhard Kern · 17th century · ivory ·  Accession ID  2022.181.78