Well of Life, Bronze sculpture in Donji grad, Zagreb, Croatia
The Well of Life displays ten life-sized figures arranged in a circular pattern around a cylindrical basin. The sculpture is crafted from bronze and stands 125 centimeters tall, with figures representing different phases of human existence.
The work was created by Ivan Meštrović in 1905 and first appeared at the Spring Exhibition of the Vienna Secession. It arrived in Zagreb for permanent display in 1912.
The figures show different human relationships and moments: couples embrace and communicate with each other, while an older person gazes into the water below. These scenes reflect how people at various life stages connect with one another.
This sculpture is located near the Mimara area in Donji grad and is easily accessible on foot. The site is open during the day, allowing visitors to observe the bronze work from different angles.
The artwork combines influences from Auguste Rodin with elements of Vienna Secession through its treatment of surface textures and body forms. This blend of styles creates an unusual visual language that stands apart from typical sculpture of the period.
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