| Place | Middle East: Ottoman Empire, Turkey, Dardanelles, Gallipoli |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | ART92996 |
| Collection type | Art |
| Measurement | Overall: 35.6 x 39.0 x 45.5 cm |
| Object type | Sculpture |
| Physical description | Terracotta concrete mallee root bust, brown paint, silver patination |
| Maker |
Kohler, Edward |
| Place made | Australia: Western Australia, Perth |
| Date made | 1940 -1950s |
| Conflict |
First World War, 1914-1918 |
| Copyright |
Item copyright: AWM Licensed copyright |
The Sniper
Description
'The Sniper' relates to Edward Kohler's First World War experiences. Kohler was engaged for some of his time at Gallipoli as a sniper on the front line and the sculpture represents his experiences in this highly dangerous occupation. Kohler found the experience manic and while he was making this work he talked about the madness of existing in constant fear and confusion. He has depicted the figure as somewhat crazed with a macabre grin. The artist has said that the only way to remain sane was to laugh at the craziness going on around him.
Edward (Ted) Kohler (1890-1964) enlisted on 18 February 1915 and served at Anzac Cove, Gallipoli with 11th Battalion, 3rd Infantry Brigade, A.I.F. It is believed that for some of this time he was a sniper. In October he was wounded. After Gallipoli he served on various fronts in northern France where he became an instructor on Lewis Guns for the Australian Corps School. Several photographs in the Australian War Memorial collection show Kohler at the Corps School (E01643, E01678). He was awarded a Meritorious Service Medal in 1918 and was discharged in April 1919.