Ernemann Sander: Art and memory on the banks of the Rhine in Königswinter

Ernemann Sander: Art and memory on the banks of the Rhine in Königswinter

Königswinter: Sculptor Ernemann Sander would now be 100 years old

The sculptor Ernemann Sander, who died in 2020, would have celebrated his 100th birthday on April 18, 2025. The artist, born in Leipzig, who saw the light of day in 1925 and lived in Oberdollendorf for over 50 years, left numerous artistic works in the Königswinter region. Among other things, his striking bronze arts that adorn the banks of the Rhine are known, including the popular donkeys that catch the eye of many walkers on the bank.

Sander left significant sculptures not only in Königswinter, but also in the area. His best -known work includes Caesarius of Heisterbach in Oberdollendorf, the protective mantle Madonna in the Chorruine Heisterbach, and the Archimedes at the school center in Oberpleis. He also created the three graces in Bonn and the Martinreliefs at the donation wall of the Bonn Münster. In Bad Honnef he designed the animal fountain from Muschelkalk, while in 1996 he received the city of Bonn.

from the beginning to artistic relevance

Sander's artistic career began at a time that was characterized by the Second World War. In 1941 he started his studies at the University of Building and Fine Arts in Weimar, where he learned traditional techniques. Despite his convocation to the Wehrmacht, he was able to celebrate his first solo exhibition at the Jena Kunstverein in 1944. After the war he worked in various artistic positions and was active as a freelance artist. From 1957 to 1983 he took on the role of the chairman of the artist group Bonn, which further consolidated its importance in the art scene.

a legacy through drawings and sculptures

Ernemann Sander was not only known for his sculptures, but also for his drawings. Over the years, he created several thousand leaves, which were created in various techniques, from ink drawings to watercolors. His preference for the contour drawing of the 19th century was shown in his way of working, in which he used long, precise lines. He believed that the setting was essential for a sculptor to develop their own skills.

sample in the Siebengebirgsmuseum

As part of an event series in the Siebengebirgsmuseum Königswinter, the artist Ernemann Sander will be the focus on April 23, 2025. Here the art historian Sandra will give lute insights into the research for a retrospective exhibition that is planned for November. This event promises exciting insights into Sander's artistic work and is expected to attract many people interested in art.