Skier Karl Hagenauer ca. 1935

Karl and Franz Hagenauer had a deep appreciation for sports, a passion that found lasting expression in numerous works by the Werkstätte Hagenauer. From early portrayals of skiers and polo players to later depictions of boxers, tennis players, and golfers, athletic themes, often paired with a touch of refined leisure, were a recurring motif in their sculptural designs.
This stylized cross-country skier captures the rhythm and focus of the sport with clarity and charm. The figure, carved from warmly toned wood and reduced to essential shapes, conveys the forward glide and steady momentum of cross-country skiing. The elongated stride, along with the diagonal placement of the poles, suggests controlled effort and continuous motion. A flowing scarf adds a sense of movement, while the posture conveys both grace and determination. Head, hands, skis, and poles are crafted from nickel-plated brass, offering a striking visual contrast to the wood.
The combination of contrasting materials, the elegant, stylized lines, and the dynamic yet humorous character of the figure exemplify the unique design language of the Werkstätte Hagenauer.