Objects

Teodor Bok’s war machines can appear in many different, most extravagant shapes and forms. This full-image sculpture made with pieces of wood takes the shape (despite it’s small size) of a monumental silhouette of a huge bird with a big, sharp beak. It is supported by four high, thin, straight legs. The armoured body, with a sharp spear attached to the back, emphasises its belligerence. The machine needs to be dragged to the target location to fulfil its terrifying function – possibly by horses or an ox; or maybe by some completely different, unknown to us creature. Regardless of the choice of animal, the small loop attached to one of the two logs has to be used in order to put the machine in motion. The little loop made of rope is a joke that mitigates the looks of the potential ruthless actions of the seemingly dangerous battle bird.

Renata Piątkowska