Second Beak Head
By compressing and pushing forward the muscles and bones, the lower part of this face is distorted into a beak shape, yet never strays from the human form. Messerschmidt’s “character heads” are among the most fascinating works in the Belvedere’s collection. Both bizarre and bemusing, these busts made of alabaster or metal are still shrouded in mystery. Described by the artist himself simply as “head pieces,” they were only given interpretative titles after his death. There are many examples of contemporary artists engaging with this unique body of work.
1777/1781
Alabaster, mottled brownish stone
42.5 x 26.0 x 24.5 cm
5640
Image © Belvedere, Vienna, 2024
Where you'll find this
Upper Belvedere
Permanent collection
Deepen your knowledge
Second Beak Head by Franz Xaver Messerschmidt
Collection Run-through. Highlights of the Belvedere
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1:55
Franz Xaver Messerschmidt, Second Beak Head
"Picture this! The Belvedere Collection from Cranach to Lassnig" in international sign
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2:22