In the heart of Plauen, nestled in the bustling Altmarkt square, stands a modern masterpiece that seamlessly bridges the past and present: the König-Albert-Brunnen. This captivating fountain, created by the talented sculptor Norbert Marten, was unveiled in 2007 and has since become a significant cultural landmark. It serves as a poignant tribute to King Albert of Saxony while also celebrating the resilience and artistic spirit of Plauen's community.
The Altmarkt, where the König-Albert-Brunnen is located, has always been a central hub in Plauen. Historically, it was adorned by a majestic equestrian statue of King Albert, inaugurated in 1907. This statue was not just a tribute to the monarch but also a symbol of the city's rich bourgeois heritage. The square was a bustling venue for markets, social gatherings, and political events, witnessing the turbulence of the early 20th century, including the aftermath of World War I and the rise of the Weimar Republic.
Remarkably, the statue of King Albert survived the devastating bombings of World War II, which ravaged 75% of Plauen. For the city's residents, it stood as a beacon of continuity amidst the chaos. However, in the spring of 1946, the statue was mysteriously dismantled, likely under the directive of the Soviet military administration. This act left many Plauen residents feeling unmoored, as if their cultural heritage was slipping away.
Hans Löwel, a native of Plauen who later found success in the Federal Republic of Germany, and his wife Edith, a former theater performer in Plauen, were deeply committed to preserving the city's cultural values. Through the Hans-Löwel-Stiftung, they championed the cause of erecting a new monument in the Altmarkt to honor the memory of King Albert's statue. Their dedication culminated in a nationwide competition in 2006, which saw Norbert Marten's design emerge victorious.
On November 13, 2007, the König-Albert-Brunnen was officially inaugurated by Mayor Oberdorfer, with funding from the Hans-Löwel-Stiftung. This modern fountain is a testament to the Löwels' enduring legacy and their love for Plauen's cultural heritage.
The König-Albert-Brunnen is a fascinating blend of history and contemporary art. At its core is a granite table, upon which rests a bronze chessboard-like structure. This platform features four bronze figures, each contributing to a dynamic and imaginative tableau. The fountain's design invites viewers to engage with it, sparking their imagination and encouraging playful interaction.
Flanking the central platform are two seated bronze kings, each on different levels to signify their importance. The larger figure represents King Albert, standing approximately 2.5 meters tall, while the smaller king, about 2 meters high, symbolizes Hans Löwel. Their placement and stature reflect the respect and admiration held for these historical and cultural figures.
The bronze chessboard itself is a marvel of artistic ingenuity. On King Albert's side, the squares are neatly arranged, symbolizing order and stability. In contrast, the other side features fragmented and uneven pieces, representing the upheavals and transformations that have shaped Plauen's history. Embedded within these gaps are water jets, which create playful and unpredictable streams of water. By covering certain jets, visitors can manipulate the water flow, experiencing firsthand the interplay of power and change.
The König-Albert-Brunnen is rich with symbolism. The gaps and irregularities in the chessboard represent the destruction of Plauen during the war and the loss of the original King Albert statue. However, these same gaps also signify the breaking down of old structures and the emergence of new, fluid forms. The flowing water, a vital and refreshing element, symbolizes renewal and the passage of time, continually reshaping and revitalizing the fountain's form.
Surrounding King Albert's figure are fountains that create a protective and respectful space around him. Meanwhile, water flows from the seat of the other king, symbolizing Hans Löwel's contributions and his connection to the city's cultural landscape. The queen figure in this royal tableau represents the performing arts, a nod to Edith Löwel's theatrical background and her support for the arts in Plauen.
The creation of the bronze figures involved meticulous craftsmanship. The larger elements, such as the kings and the platform, were cast using the sand casting method, while the smaller, more intricate figures were produced using the lost-wax casting technique. This combination of techniques results in a striking contrast between the robust forms of the kings and the delicate details of the smaller figures.
Beneath the granite table lies a sophisticated fountain chamber, housing the mechanisms that control the water supply, fountains, and lighting. This hidden infrastructure ensures that the König-Albert-Brunnen remains a vibrant and engaging feature of the Altmarkt, day and night.
In conclusion, the König-Albert-Brunnen is more than just a fountain; it is a symbol of Plauen's resilience, creativity, and dedication to preserving its cultural heritage. Its thoughtful design and rich symbolism make it a must-visit landmark for anyone exploring this charming Saxon city. Whether you are drawn by its historical significance or its artistic allure, the König-Albert-Brunnen promises an experience that is both enlightening and inspiring.
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