Liegende mit Frucht (Reclining Woman with Fruit), Bamberg

The Reclining Woman with Fruit is a captivating bronze sculpture created by the renowned Colombian artist, Fernando Botero. Like many of Botero's works, this sculpture showcases his distinctive style of portraying overweight figures in provocative and sensual positions. By exaggerating the forms and proportions of his subjects, Botero challenges traditional notions of beauty and prompts viewers to question societal ideals.

The Reclining Woman with Fruit was acquired by the city of Bamberg in 1998, thanks to the support of private donors. However, this purchase sparked extensive debates regarding the purpose and appropriateness of investing in such modern art campaigns. Despite the controversy, proponents of contemporary art in Bamberg managed to establish the Bamberg Sculpture Trail, transforming the city's public spaces into a permanent exhibition for artworks like Botero's sculpture.

Seven years later, the Reclining Woman with Fruit found itself making headlines once again. It was chosen to be a tourist attraction during the 10th Antiques Week celebrations in 2005. Placed on a platform in the Regnitz, the sculpture was meant to draw visitors and create a memorable experience. Unfortunately, due to miscalculations by those responsible for the platform's stability, it capsized, causing the 870 kg bronze sculpture to topple into the water. The rescue operation required the assistance of the BRK water rescue service, fire brigade, and THW to salvage the artwork from its unexpected plunge.

The Reclining Woman with Fruit serves as a thought-provoking piece that challenges conventional beauty standards and invites viewers to contemplate the complexities of human form. Despite the controversies and mishaps surrounding its acquisition and temporary misadventure, this sculpture remains a prominent symbol of artistic expression and cultural appreciation in Bamberg.