Neubrandenburg in Flames
- Original dimensions
- 101 x 72 cm
- Movement
- romanticism
- Museum
- Hamburg Kunsthalle
- Year
- 1835
Scene depicted
The painting “Neubrandenburg in Flames” captures the dramatic moment of a devastating fire. The swirling sky with shades of red and gold seems to respond to the silent cries of tormented souls. The Gothic architecture, illuminated by the flames, becomes the symbol of a glorious past consumed. This canvas tells not only of a tragic event but also of nature's call, blind to human suffering.
Historical context
Artwork: Neubrandenburg in Flames |BRK| Artist: Caspar David Friedrich |BRK| Year: 1835 |BRK| Museum: Hamburg Kunsthalle |BRK| Dimensions: 101 x 72 cm |BRK| Artistic Movement: romanticism |BRK| Major Exhibitions: Entfesselte Natur. The Image of Catastrophe since 1600 |BRK|
Place in the artist's career
“Neubrandenburg in Flames” stands as a pivotal work in Friedrich's career. At the crossroads of genres, where his style touches on tragedy, it heralds the evolution towards more introspective compositions. Alongside “ Wanderer above the Sea of Fog ” and “ The Sea of Ice ”, one notes the evolution of his techniques of light and perspective, linking suffering to the vastness of nature.
Anecdote
“I paint to immortalize raw emotion, the kind that few perceive.” It is in this context that Friedrich faced the horror of the flames engulfing Neubrandenburg. A fiery sunset illuminated the scene, revealing not only the tragedy but a profound beauty. The strength of this pictorial work finds its roots in this fleeting moment, this blend of dread and enchantment.
Major exhibitions
Entfesselte Natur. The Image of Catastrophe since 1600