Alma Mater: two children sitting
- Original dimensions
- 164 x 535 cm
- Museum
- Munch Museum
- Year
- 1914
Scene depicted
This painting illustrates the tenderness and innocence of childhood, with two seated children, symbolizing both the naivety and purity of the human soul. The composition immerses us in a universe where love and familial affection become palpable, creating a silent dialogue between the young protagonists and the viewers. It reflects Munch's concerns about the human condition, imbued with a nostalgic atmosphere.
Historical context
Created in 1914, Alma Mater : two seated children is a major illustration of the expressionist movement, an artistic movement that emanates from the artistic city of Oslo, Norway. During this period when Munch begins to crystallize his most personal themes, the work is today carefully preserved at the Munch Museum, an iconic place that celebrates the legacy of this exceptional artist. Its imposing dimensions of 164 x 535 cm testify to Munch's ambition to capture the essence of human emotion through his canvas .
Place in the artist's career
Positioned at the heart of Munch's career, Alma Mater marks an emblematic turning point for the artist. This canvas lies between his darkest works such as The Scream and his explorations of light and color in more joyful compositions. It confronts the audience with a moment of poetic pause, synthesizing his reflections on life, death, and human relationships.
Anecdote
"I wanted to capture the innocence and simplicity of childhood through this work," Munch confided when discussing his masterpiece . This happened one spring morning, as he observed two children joyfully playing in a sunlit alley. This scene awakened in him memories of a peaceful world, a fleeting moment, which we can find in the evocative power of Alma Mater .