Artist Database

Henry Moore is renowned as one of Britain’s prominent Modernist sculptors and was the first to achieve critical acclaim during his lifetime. By the end of his career, he was the world’s most successful living artist at auction. His notable monumental bronze sculptures draw inspiration from the human body with his most common motif being the reclining figure, as well as natural and organic forms. These biomorphic sculptures can be found worldwide. Whilst primarily a sculptor, Moore is also known for his drawings and prints, including those that documented the experiences of people in London’s Underground air-raid shelters during World War II.

Moore studied sculpture at Leeds School of Art and subsequently at the Royal College of Art in London. After his studies, he travelled extensively before returning to London where he taught at the Royal College of Art and the Chelsea College of Art.

Moore’s extraordinary contribution to Modernist sculpture was recognised when he won the International Sculpture Prize at the Venice Biennale in 1948, and he was nominated for a Knighthood, which he turned down in 1951. He was awarded the Companion of Honour in 1955, the Order of Merit in 1962, and in 1968 he received the Erasmus prize. Moore was a trustee of the National Gallery and the Tate in London.

Henry Moore’s work was exhibited worldwide during his lifetime and continues to be exhibited and represented in prestigious collections worldwide. He established The Henry Moore Foundation in 1977 to preserve his legacy through ongoing support for sculptors.