Les Animaux Magique / Magical Animals (2007) Sculpture by Sándor Móga

Sándor Móga (1927–2022) was a distinguished Hungarian artist, renowned for his multifaceted contributions as a sculptor, painter, and goldsmith. His artistic journey began in 1947 when he enrolled at the Academy of Arts, studying under the guidance of prominent figures such as goldsmith Pál Lajos, sculptor Miklós Borsos, and painter Pál Miháltz. During this formative period, he forged a close friendship with sculptor Imre Szebényi and became a member of the early MEFESZ (Hungarian National Union of Students).

Móga's talent was evident early in his career when, on April 14, 1948, he achieved recognition by winning a competition of the National Hungarian Society of Applied Arts with his work—an intricately crafted flower vase. As his artistic journey progressed, he became a member of the Art Fund and, following its dissolution, joined the National Association of Hungarian Artists. In 1990, he became a member of the newly established Interest Representation Association of Fine Artists and Industrial Artists.

Móga's artistic focus extended beyond traditional jewelry goldsmithing; he delved into the realm of art goldsmithing, skillfully combining his passion for sculpture with his interest in goldsmithing. His portfolio included outdoor sculptures carved from stone, small cast sculptures, and metal sculptures enriched with goldsmith techniques. The pinnacle of his creative expression lay in the refinement of organic and abstract stylistic features, evident in small series of home furnishing objects like decorative trays, sculptures, cassettes, and small sculptures. This unique blend of elements set his works apart and earned recognition even among his peers.

The use of materials in Móga's work evolved over time. Initially characterized by bronze, copper, and silver, he later incorporated fire enamel. His debut at the national level showcased bronze, lead, and stone sculptures, while outdoor stone sculptures, cast metal statuettes, and metal sculptures utilizing goldsmith techniques followed suit. His creations spanned a spectrum, from unique or limited editions of home furnishing objects to decorative trays, sculptures, vases, cassettes, statuettes, and mural works of art, all characterized by diverse designs and organic and abstract stylistic features.

Móga's artistic legacy includes large, hammered decorative wall plates, notable examples of abstract or figurative traditional plate sculpture. These plates, often featuring ethnological, anthropological, or organic themes, were crafted from copper, sometimes patinated, and adorned with colorful vitreous enamel. Toward the end of his prolific career, Móga embraced new creative challenges, integrating modern technological solutions with traditional skills, material shaping, colored patina, and vitreous enamel processes. Sándor Móga's enduring impact on the Hungarian art scene remains a testament to his innovative spirit and unwavering commitment to pushing artistic boundaries.

• Nationality: HUNGARY
• Date of birth : 1927
• Artistic domains: Works by professional artists, Represented by a Gallery,
• Groups: Professional Artist Contemporary Hungarian Artists Artists presented by a gallery