Fredrik Wretman

A larger version of Wretman's sculpture "Up, up and away", is located at the main entrance of Östermalmshallen, Stockholm. The sculpture depicts the legs of Hermes. In Greek mythology (Mercurius in Roman), Hermes was the only one who could speak the language of both humans, the gods, and Hades (the kingdom of the dead). Hermes therefore became the messenger between the worlds and thus also the god of traders and thieves. He is often depicted wearing a winged helmet or with wings on his heels as a reminder of his agility and ability to reach out to many. The hood of the tower on the façade facing Östermalmstorg is already crowned with the helmet of Mercurius. The market hall was built in 1888 and has retained its function ever since. It was designed by the architects Isak Gustaf Clason and Kasper Salin. Placed in the main entrance, Wretman's 3-metre-high sculpture corresponds to the symbols on the corner tower. With powerful concreteness in the figurative language of form, Wretman accurately captures the movement and energy that characterizes gathering places such as market halls and squares.