Saint Bernard in the Snow
- Original dimensions
- 120 x 90 cm
- Museum
- Munch Museum
- Year
- 1913
Scene depicted
In the painting “Saint-Bernard dans la neige,” Munch immerses us in the heart of a mysterious winter scene. The work evokes a landscape where a dog, a figure of companionship and loyalty, moves amidst an enchanting white cloak. The composition, charged with emotion, invites the viewer to feel the palpable tranquility and soothing silence of the snow. Shades of white to icy blue envelop us, creating an atmosphere that is both serene and contemplative.
Historical context
Created in 1913 in the heart of old Oslo, this painting is one of the cornerstones of the expressionist movement. In a context where art is freeing itself from constraints, Munch asserts himself with this iconic masterpiece, presenting his dreamlike and emotive interpretation of nature. Today, this painting is preserved in the Munch Museum, a true sanctuary of his works, where visitors can admire its spectacular dimensions of 120 x 90 cm.
Place in the artist's career
“Saint-Bernard dans la neige” is part of Munch's maturity period, where he merges personalism and expressionism . This painting dialogues with other significant works like “The Scream” and “The Madonna,” highlighting a stylistic evolution towards a deeper expressiveness. Together, these paintings constitute a journey marked by struggles and internal revelations, thus marking a decisive phase in his career.
Anecdote
“Nature has always spoken to me like a secret language,” said Munch, recalling the inspiration that emerged in the thrill of a winter morning. This experience, imbued with solitude and beauty, gave birth to the painting on canvas that wonderfully captures the essence of nature while resonating with the human soul, revealing the depth of the canvas with each glance.
Major exhibitions
Munch og Ekely: 1916-1944