Melancholy
- Original dimensions
- 120 x 125 cm
- Museum
- Stenersen Museum
- Year
- 1911
Scene depicted
In this pictorial work, Munch immerses us in an atmosphere of contemplation. The scene unfolds around a solemn figure, full of dark thoughts and inner reflections. The visual elements, such as the troubled sky and the surrounding nature, resonate with anxiety and existential torment, interpreted through the expressive movement of the artist.
Historical context
Created in 1911, the painting Melancholy is rooted in the tumultuous context of the early 20th century, a period when expressionism emerged strongly. Made in Oslo, this iconic canvas reflects a time when artists sought to capture the complexity of human emotions. Currently housed in the Stenersen Museum, this painting of imposing dimensions 120 x 125 cm continues to inspire with its depth and palpable melancholy.
Place in the artist's career
Melancholy represents a pivotal moment in Munch's career, an artist who stands out for his bold exploration of human anxiety. Following works such as The Scream and The Madonna , this painting fits into a period where he fully embraces expressionism , integrating raw emotions and an experimental aesthetic that shape his artistic trajectory.
Anecdote
“Melancholy is a cry of the soul, an open door to our emotions.” Wandering through a deserted alley in Oslo one spring morning, Munch felt a creative surge. This fleeting moment, this face encountered in the crowd, translates into the evocative power of Melancholy , a work where silently, sadness meets beauty.
Major exhibitions
Kan hende er det vakkert. Kunstsamleren Rolf Stenersen