Adri van Rooijen - Saint Christopher
Adri van Rooijen - Saint Christopher
Signed on the bottom of the foot.
This expressive bronze sculpture by Adri van Rooijen depicts Saint Christopher in a dynamic, progressive pose. The saint carries the child on his shoulder, while supporting himself firmly with a long staff, symbolizing strength and guidance. The rough, handcrafted texture of the bronze gives the work a vibrant, almost spiritual energy. The openwork pedestal depicts flowing water, alluding to Christopher's mythical crossing. The green patina enhances the sculpture's timeless and sacred character. The verticality of the composition gives the sculpture a stately presence, despite its slender and open design. The child exudes confidence and lightness, creating a beautiful contrast with the solid figure of Christopher. The whole exudes protection, devotion, and inner strength. This sculpture is ideal for lovers of religious art, symbolism, and classical sculptural traditions. Its refined detailing and spiritual message make the work visually captivating from every angle.
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Material
Material
Bronze
Dimensions
Dimensions
39 cm high x 10 cm wide x 10 cm deep
Weight
Weight
2.1 kg
About the artist: Adri van Rooijen
Adri van Rooijen (1922–1991)was a Dutch sculptor known for his spiritually charged, figurative bronzes. He studied at the Rijksakademie van Beeldende Kunsten in Amsterdam, where he was shaped by the classical visual tradition that remained evident in his later work. From the 1950s onward, Van Rooijen developed a recognizable style with slender, stylized figures that often allude to religious and symbolic themes, such as Saint Christopher or protective, supporting figures. His sculptures are characterized by a strong verticality, open structures, and a refined balance between strength and vulnerability. The surface texture is deliberately rough and expressive, allowing light and shadow to play a significant role in the experience. Van Rooijen worked extensively in bronze and developed a warm, timeless patina that gives his sculptures a sacred aura. His combination of technique, symbolism, and tranquility places him among the respected Dutch figurative sculptors of the 20th century. His work is represented in private collections, churches and public spaces, where it still evokes a sense of peace and contemplation.