ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Henry Moore's Three Works: Sculpting Space and Light

exhibition · 2026-08-30

Henry Moore, the British sculptor famous for his impressive large-scale pieces that merge form and space, is celebrated with three key works: 'Reclining Figure' (1958), 'Guerriero con scudo' (1953-54), and 'Forma squadrata con taglio' (1974). Born in Castleford, Yorkshire to a miner, his early life influenced his practical approach to art. In 1925, his studies in Italy exposed him to masters like Giotto and Michelangelo. The 'Reclining Figure' was inspired by a Chac Mool statue at the British Museum, with a notable travertine version in UNESCO, Paris. After being neglected in Florence, 'Guerriero con scudo' was finally reinstalled in 1986. Moore’s 170-ton travertine piece in Prato features a circular opening that interacts with the scenery. His exhibition 'Henry Moore: Monumental Nature' at Kew Gardens in London runs until September 27. Moore believed that art allows for a deeper exploration of life, emphasizing the importance of not overlooking contemporary works.

Key facts

  • Henry Moore was born in Castleford, Yorkshire, and was the son of a miner.
  • In 1925, Moore visited Italy on a scholarship, spending three months in Florence, where he was influenced by Giotto and Masaccio.
  • Moore's 'Reclining Figure' (1958) was inspired by a Chac Mool sculpture at the British Museum.
  • The travertine version of 'Reclining Figure' (1956-58) is installed at UNESCO headquarters in Paris.
  • 'Guerriero con scudo' (1953-54) was donated to Florence in 1972 but returned after being neglected; it was reinstalled in 1986.
  • 'Forma squadrata con taglio' (1974) is a 170-ton travertine sculpture in Prato's Piazza San Marco, made from 30 blocks from the Apuan Alps.
  • The exhibition 'Henry Moore: Monumental Nature' at Kew Gardens in London runs until September 27.
  • Moore believed sculptures should be displayed outdoors to interact with changing natural light.

Entities

Artists

Institutions

Locations

  • Castleford
  • Yorkshire
  • Florence
  • Italy
  • Paris
  • France
  • Prato
  • London
  • United Kingdom
  • Alpi Apuane
  • Forte Belvedere
  • Palazzo Vecchio
  • Loggia di Saturno
  • Cappella Brancaci
  • Piazza San Marco

Sources