George Minne initially trained in architecture before turning to engraving and sculpture. Introduced to the Symbolist movement by the poet Maurice Maeterlinck, Minne’s work, which was significantly influenced by Auguste Rodin, explored the body and its movements, torsions, and interlacing forms. His Adolescent series, featuring fragile, elongated figures, became pivotal for the development of his personal artistic style. By 1898, Minne had settled in Laethem-Saint-Martin, where he led a group of artists inspired by Flemish primitives and religious mysticism.
Our sculpture of David, catalogued by Leo Van Puyvelde in 1930, is part of George Minne’s ongoing exploration of the frail, emaciated adolescent form. Although inspired by a biblical theme, it serves to highlight the anatomical potential of the figure of a youthful male. David is directly linked to Minne’s earlier work from Brussels, particularly his sketchbooks from 1894–1898. This later work has a more monumental presence whereby the figure’s expression is conveyed through the powerful, yet sensual gesture of the body. The sculpture’s simplicity and silent inwardness create a profound introspection, which would go on to influence later artists, namely Wilhelm Lehmbruck.