Henry Moore was the most important British sculptor of the 20th century. The combination of figure and abstract features in this sculpture is characteristic of his work. The thin neck of the woman was inspired by the breast bone of a bird, which has great strength despite its lightness. Moore stated that the thin head and neck give the figure more monumentality by contrast with the width and bulk of the body.

The massive thighs can be seen as suggesting the rocky outlines of landscape – this kind of connection was a significant theme in Moore’s work.

Provenance: Purchased with grant aid from the Victoria and Albert Museum, 1964

Object description
Type: Easel painting
Location: Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Tyne & Wear
Material: Bronze
Artist: Henry Moore (1898-1986)
Date: 1961-64

Image Details
Date: 15 April 2023
Camera body: iPhone Xs
Lens: Wide Camera 26mm ƒ/1.8
Focal Length: 26mm
Aperture: ƒ/1.8
Shutter Speed: 1/25s
ISO: 500
Licensing: Image of a North East Museums asset. This image cannot be licensed.