Winged Figure, Modernist sculpture at John Lewis Building in City of Westminster, England
The Winged Figure is a modernist aluminum sculpture mounted on the John Lewis Building's exterior, rising 5.8 meters high. Two asymmetric wings connected by stainless steel rods form the composition, which sits on a plinth approximately 4 meters above street level.
British artist Barbara Hepworth created this work in 1963 after the John Lewis Building first approached Jacob Epstein, who declined the commission. It was later designated as a Grade II* listed building in recognition of its architectural and artistic importance.
The work marks a shift away from traditional figure sculpture toward abstract exploration of form and space in public view. Standing on a busy shopping street, it shapes how visitors perceive this London neighborhood.
The sculpture stands on Holles Street near the Oxford Street junction and is easily visible from street level. The plinth sits several meters above the pavement, providing a clear viewing angle for pedestrians passing by.
Approximately 200 million people pass by this work each year, making it one of London's most-viewed public artworks. This enormous daily footfall means many visitors see it without consciously noticing the sculpture.
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