Artwork

Laura Munch

Laura Munch, by Edvard Munch, oil, 1892
Laura Munch, by Edvard Munch, oil, 1892

Laura Munch is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Edvard Munch. It dates from 1892 and is held in the collection of the Munch Museum.

About this work

To learn more about the artist's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark, look up Edvard Munch.

This painting shows a young girl's head and shoulders. She faces left, with her brown hair pulled back and a white ruffled collar around her neck. Her face is painted with visible brushstrokes, giving it a textured look. The background is dark, with a reddish-brown color behind her head.

The girl's features are softly rendered, with a subtle expression. Her eyes are cast downward, and her mouth is set in a gentle curve. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation.

The painting is a portrait of Laura Munch, created by Edvard Munch in 1883. To learn more about the artist's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark, look up Edvard Munch.

Overview

Laura Munch is a portrait painting executed in oil paint by Edvard Munch in 1892. It is part of the collection at the Munch Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Laura Munch, the artist's sister, in a contemplative pose. Her downward-cast eyes and gentle smile convey a sense of quiet introspection.

Technique & Style

The portrait features visible brushstrokes and a textured finish, characteristic of Edvard Munch's post-impressionist style. The use of chiaroscuro creates a striking contrast between the subject's illuminated face and the dark, reddish-brown background.

History & Provenance

Created in 1892, Laura Munch is a product of Edvard Munch's early career, during which he was influenced by his studies and association with the nihilist Hans Jæger.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Edvard Munch

Artist

Edvard Munch

Edvard Munch ( MUUNK; Norwegian: ; 12 December 1863 – 23 January 1944) was a Norwegian painter.

Munch Museum

Museum

Munch Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Munch Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.