Science. 1934. Vera Mukhina. Tinted plaster. Dimensions: 52×14×12 cm. Tactile model. Plastic, metallization (bronze).
A monumental, minimally detailed figure of a standing woman. The face lacks distinct features, and her hair is gathered at the back of her head. With both hands, she holds an open book high above her head. The upper part of her dress nearly merges with her body, while the long skirt envelops her figure in heavy folds. Her left leg is bent at the knee and rests on a model of the globe.In the 1930s, Mukhina worked on various commissions for architectural projects, most of which remained unrealized. One such work is the sculptural maquette «Science», created for the Moskva Hotel building. The sculpture appears to embody the invincible power of reason—armed with which, any person becomes capable of great achievements. It is significant that the figure is a woman, representing the emancipated «class.» Her «peasant»-like attire also carries symbolic weight.
by Daniil Dolgikh and Irina Savenko
In the video, Daniil Dolgikh talks about his favourite tactile model in English 🙂