Barla, Ernst Heinrich (Barlach Ernst Heinrich)

(1870-1938)
Born January 2, 1870 in Wedel (Holstein). His artistic career started as a sculptor, and it is this aspect of his work gained the greatest fame. He wrote several dramatic works of mystical-philosophical nature, published with the author's illustrations. One of the illustrations - engravings Flood (1924) - was awarded Kleist Prize.
Barlach created his sculptural works primarily in wood. In 1906 he visited Russia, where he impressed peasant carving. On his return he began to do in the main figures of the peasants in expressive poses. The sculptor has used a special technique: he portrayed his characters dressed in a long robe, which gave them the solidity of the figures and draperies reminiscent of Gothic sculpture. However, much simplified treatment of surfaces and geometrically stylized folds give out their modern origins. Among the works of Barlach significant place is occupied by small statuettes, including porcelain. The sculptor created and monumental sights and songs, of which the best known consists of several pieces of wooden monument to the fallen in the Magdeburg Cathedral (1930). After coming to power, the Nazis persecuted Barlach. His works were shown in 1937 at the exhibition 'Degenerate Art', were removed from museums and monuments removed. Barlach died in Rostock on October 24, 1938.