The sun
(Die Sonne)
(1914)
plate from the Zehn Holzschnitte von Schmidt-Rottluff portfolio, J.B. Neumann, Das Berliner Graphische Kabinett, Berlin, 1919
Medium
woodcut
Measurements
39.8 × 50.0 cm (block) 50.2 × 62.8 cm (sheet)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased, 1956
© Karl Schmidt-Rottluff/VG Bild-Kunst, Bonn. Licensed by Copyright Agency, Australia
Gallery location
Not on display
About this work
Karl Schmidt-Rottluff and the other Die Brücke artists were drawn to printmaking, and Edvard Munch’s expressive, simplified woodcuts were particularly influential for them. Created in the summer of 1914 during Schmidt-Rottluff’s customary lakeside retreat, The sun exemplifies a common theme in early Expressionist art: an almost spiritual reverence for nature. In this woodcut, two figures approach a rising sun. As they walk towards the light, their outstretched arms convey a sense of optimism about what lies ahead. With its allusions to salvation, The sun reflects Schmidt-Rottluff’s belief that the imminent war would pave the way for a brighter future.
Artwork Details
Catalogue/s Raisonné
Schapire 152
Edition
edition of 75
Inscription
inscribed in pencil below image l.r.: S. Rottluff
Accession Number
3385B-4
Departments
International Prints / International Prints and Drawings
This digital record has been made available on NGV Collection Online through the generous support of the Joe White Bequest