The first morning of the world, stage design for the dance-drama
1961
Modern
750.0 x 500.0 cm
Benaki Museum of Greek Civilization
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A Dawn of Primordial Splendor
In the breathtaking expanse of "The first morning of the world," we are invited to witness a moment of profound cosmic significance. This monumental stage design, conceived in 1961 by the visionary Greek master Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghika, transcends the boundaries of mere theatrical backdrop to become a window into the very genesis of existence. The composition captures a breathtaking sunrise over an infinite ocean, where the light of a new era breaks through the horizon to touch the edges of the earth. As the sun ascends, it casts a warm, golden glow across a landscape that feels both ancient and newborn, illuminating a scene where the elements of water, earth, and sky converge in a silent, sacred dance.
The artistry of Hadjikyriakos-Ghika is on full display through his masterful command of light and form. Drawing from his deep roots in Cubist principles and his unique Greek perspective, the artist utilizes a rhythmic arrangement of shapes to depict the rugged silhouettes of trees against the shimmering sea. Some branches reach upward, bare and skeletal, while others are lush with life, creating a poignant contrast between dormancy and vitality. The technique evokes a sense of depth and atmosphere, where the hazy light of dawn softens the edges of the world, making the transition from night to day feel like a tangible, breathing event. For the collector or interior designer, this piece offers a commanding presence, bringing an aura of expansive tranquility and natural majesty to any sophisticated space.
Symbolism and the Spirit of Creation
Beyond its visual splendor, the artwork serves as a profound meditation on the concept of beginnings. The title itself suggests a time before history, a moment of pure potentiality where the world is being shaped by light. The figures gathered at the water's edge—small in comparison to the vastness of the rising sun and the sea—act as witnesses to this primordial event. Their presence adds a layer of human connection to the cosmic scale, suggesting that humanity is inextricably linked to the rhythms of the natural world. This interplay between the monumental landscape and the delicate human element creates an emotional resonance that is both humbling and deeply inspiring.
For those seeking to curate an environment of reflection and awe, this reproduction offers more than just decoration; it provides a focal point for contemplation. The warm palette of ambers, golds, and deep blues works harmoniously to evoke feelings of hope, renewal, and peace. Whether placed in a grand gallery setting or as a centerpiece in a contemporary living space, "The first morning of the world" serves as a constant reminder of the beauty found in every new beginning, making it an incomparable acquisition for lovers of fine art and those who find inspiration in the eternal cycles of nature.
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Artist Biography
**early life and education**
nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika, a renowned greek painter, sculptor, engraver, writer, and academic, was born on february 26, 1906, in athens, greece. his family's legacy in the greek war of independence of 1821 significantly influenced his early life. between 1918-1922, his family recognized his artistic potential, leading to his study under the artist parthenis.**artistic development and exhibitions**
- in 1922, hadjikyriakos-ghika enrolled in a sorbonne university course for french literature and aesthetics, simultaneously attending académie ranson for painting and engraving studies.
- his first exhibition at the société des artistes indépendants (salon des indépendants) in 1923 marked the beginning of his prolific career.
- notably, picasso commented on his work, further solidifying his presence in the french art scene.
**collaborations and teaching**
- in 1934, he shared an exhibition with sculptor michael tombros, significantly impacting the athenian art world.
- between 1936-1937, he collaborated on the periodical "trito mati (the third eye)" with poet papatzonis, architect dimitris pikionis, and theatrical director sokratis karantinos.
- in 1941, he was elected professor of drawing at the national technical university of athens, a position he held until 1958.
**international recognition**
- in 1946, the british council in athens arranged his first retrospective exhibition, featuring 42 paintings.
- in 1949, he formed the "armos" art group with fellow artists yiannis moralis, yannis tsarouchis, nikos nikolaou, and panayiotis tetsis.
- he represented greece at the 25th venice biennale in 1950, exhibiting 17 canvases.
**legacy**
nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika's works are featured in prominent museums worldwide, including:- the national gallery (athens)
- musée d'art moderne de la ville de paris
- tate gallery in london
- metropolitan museum of new york [https://ArtsDot.com/@/nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika](https://ArtsDot.com/@/nikos%20hadjikyriakos-ghika) | 12 artworks nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika | artworks [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/nikos_hadjikyriakos-ghikas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/nikos_hadjikyriakos-ghikas) - wikipedia: nikos hadjikyriakos-ghikas **key works:**
- the first morning of the world, stage design for the dance-drama (benaki museum of greek civilization, athens, greece)
- portrait of ferdinand vii (romanticism, oil) - not by nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika, but a notable example of his contemporaries' work.
- national gallery (athens)
- musée d'art moderne de la ville de paris
- tate gallery in london
- metropolitan museum of new york
**conclusion**
nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika's profound impact on greek art, his pioneering role in cubism, and his extensive international recognition solidify his position as a leading figure in 20th-century art.
nikos hadjikyriakos-ghika
1906 - 1994 , Greece
Quick Facts
- Artistic Movement Or Style: Cubism
- Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['Modern Greek painting']
- Artists Who Influenced This Artist: ['Pablo Picasso']
- Date Of Birth: February 26, 1906
- Date Of Death: 1994
- Full Name: Nikos Hadjikyriakos-Ghika
- Nationality: Greek
- Notable Artworks:
- The Pleasures of Rest
- The Studio in Hydra
- Place Of Birth: Athens, Greece