Maman

The monumental spider sculpture known as *Maman* was created by French-American artist Louise Bourgeois in 1999. The title is the French word for "mother," reflecting the artist's complex relationship with her own mother. Bourgeois intended the spider to be an ode to her mother's weaving and protective nature.

*Maman* is cast in bronze, stainless steel, and marble. The towering structure stands over 30 feet tall and features a sac containing marble eggs suspended beneath its body. The original version was first created for the opening of the Tate Modern's Turbine Hall in London.

There are multiple bronze castings of *Maman* located around the world, meaning you can see the sculpture in several major cities. Permanent installations exist outside the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, the National Gallery of Canada in Ottawa, and the Tate Modern in London. It is a highly photographed public art landmark.

Louise Bourgeois created *Maman* as a tribute to her mother, who was a weaver and tapestry restorer. The spider represents protection, strength, and the maternal instinct, despite its initially frightening appearance. The sac of marble eggs beneath the spider's body emphasizes the theme of motherhood and fertility.