Wanderlust

Today, I finally had a good opportunity to capture a photo of Jeff Koons' stainless steel statue titled "Kiepenkerl" which is on display near the Jefferson Drive entrance to the Smithsonian Institution Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.

Kiepenkerl by Jeff Koons

This statue is based on the Travelling Peddler statue in Munster, Germany which was originally cast in 1896, destroyed in 1945, and subsequently re-cast and on display contemporaneously.

I've always been struck by the way this sculpture seems to capture a bit of the wanderlust that my walking allows me to experience.  The historical peddler in northern Germany served as an intermediary between the city and the countryside bringing wares for sale in his pannier as well as letters and news from the surrounding countryside.

It actually took me quite a while to dig up any real information on this sculpture, and that surprised me a little.

I was also once again treated to a glorious sunset with the Anacostia River in the foreground.

Anacostia River Sunset

Today, the new residential building that is quickly rising out of the river plain across from Nationals Stadium appeared to be a raging conflagration or the collar on a brightly burning torch.  I remain in awe of the fact that (so far) no matter how many times I've been the witness to similar events in similar locations, I still find the differences and beauty of each of these moments compellingly moving.