“The Language of the Birds” by Anselm Kiefer

12th art project on the Salzburg Walk of Modern Art: Anselm Kiefer, “The Language of the Birds” (2018/19) Chiemseehof.

This monumental sculpture depicts a massive bronze eagle landing on a towering stack of books. Installed in the Chiemseehof, the sculpture symbolizes wisdom, education, and the fleeting nature of things in a multilayered way. It reminds us that knowledge and time are fleeting.

Of wings, art and books

Anselm Kiefer's sculpture “The Language of Birds” (2018/19) is a 4.2-metre-high and 1.8-metre-wide bronze work of art that stands on a 7-tonne plinth. An imposing eagle with outstretched wings rests on a symbolic stack of books at the Chiemseehof in Salzburg. The work of art exudes enormous power and encourages people to engage with themes such as cultural memory and identity. Kiefer created this sculpture in connection with his reflections on the French author Fulcanelli and the mythological aspects of bird language, which is often understood as access to hidden knowledge. The choice of the eagle and the books refers to intellectuality, foresight and the importance of education for democracy.

About the artist Anselm Kiefer

Anselm Kiefer is a painter and sculptor and is considered one of the most important representatives of Neo-Expressionism of the late 20th century. His works are known for their use of unconventional materials such as straw, ash, clay, lead and shellac. Kiefer deals intensively with German history, the horrors of the Holocaust and mythological themes.

The idea behind the Walk of Modern Art

Initiated by the Salzburg Foundation, the Walk of Modern Art makes contemporary art accessible to everyone. Created between 2002 and 2019, the works by international artists such as James Turrell, Marina Abramović, Markus Lüpertz, and Brigitte Kowanz explore the intersection of history, urban architecture, and contemporary art.

Practical information

- The artworks of the Walk of Modern Art Salzburg are freely accessible.
- The duration of the walk is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.