BereniceAnselm Kiefer · 1989

  • Creation date1989
  • Dimensions120.0 x 390.0 cm
  • MuseumGuggenheim Museum Bilbao
Over the course of his career, Kiefer has depicted a number of real and mythological women, from Elizabeth of Austria to Brunhilde and Lilith. Berenice (1989) refers to the third-century BCE legend of Princess Berenice of Cyrene (present-day Libya). To ensure the safe return of her husband, Berenice sacrificed her long locks of hair and dedicated them to Venus; the locks subsequently disappeared from the temple where they had been laid and were said to have been transformed into a new constellation in the night sky. In this sculpture, Kiefer alludes to the myth by means of the partial wreckage of an airplane made of lead—a wing and a fuselage that emits a disturbing stream of human hair, suggesting spent fuel or toxic black fumes. Lead airplanes are a recurring motif in Kiefer

Anselm Kiefer (1945 –)

Explore Anselm Kiefer's monumental paintings & sculptures confronting German history & trauma. Known for ash, straw & powerful symbolism, his work is a visceral experience.

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao (Bilbao, Spain)

Discover the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao – an architectural marvel & art destination! Explore stunning titanium designs, diverse collections, and a city transformed by its cultural legacy.

About this artwork

  • Title: Berenice
  • Artist: Anselm Kiefer
  • Year: 1989
  • Original dimensions: 120.0 x 390.0 cm
  • Format: Landscape
  • Copyright status: Under copyright
  • Where to see it: Guggenheim Museum Bilbao
  • Main color: White
  • Color hue: Warm Sunset Tones

Questions & Answers

At what age did Anselm Kiefer make "Berenice"?

When "Berenice" was created in 1989, Anselm Kiefer - born in 1945 - was 44 years old.

Who is the artist behind "Berenice"?

"Berenice" was created by Anselm Kiefer. The information on this page describes Anselm Kiefer's original work.

Toward which tone does "Berenice" lean?

A warm sunset tones hue runs through "Berenice" by Anselm Kiefer.

Are the colors of "Berenice" by Anselm Kiefer vivid or muted?

"Berenice" by Anselm Kiefer is recorded with a muted saturation and a monochromatic intensity.

In what year was "Berenice" by Anselm Kiefer created?

The creation of "Berenice" by Anselm Kiefer is dated 1989.

How strong is the contrast in "Berenice" by Anselm Kiefer?

"Berenice" by Anselm Kiefer shows a gentle contrast between its light and dark areas.

How is the palette of "Berenice" by Anselm Kiefer described?

"Berenice" by Anselm Kiefer uses a neutrals color palette. The palette summarizes the work's overall color character.

© 2026 mus3ums.com