“Termitenkönigin,” a 1975 sculpture by Meret Oppenheim, is a significant piece within the Surrealism movement. This artwork exemplifies the genre of sculpture through its unique representation and form.
The artwork, titled “Termitenkönigin” (translated as “Termite Queen”), is characterized by an elongated, organic form that appears to mimic the structure of an insect, specifically a termite queen. The sculpture’s surface is segmented and adorned with undulating patterns of dark and lighter hues, suggesting a natural, carapace-like texture. The meticulous attention to detail and the choice of materials give the sculpture a lifelike quality, invoking curiosity and contemplation. The head of the termite is subtly defined, while the body appears robust and significant, aligning with the conceptual focus on the regal and commanding presence of a queen termite within its colony.
