Artwork

Melancholy

Melancholy, by Edvard Munch, oil, 1897
Melancholy, by Edvard Munch, oil, 1897

Melancholy is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Edvard Munch. It dates from 1897 and is held in the collection of the Munch Museum.

About this work

Overview

Melancholy is a 1897 oil painting by Edvard Munch, a Norwegian artist known for exploring emotional and psychological themes.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a somber scene: a man in dark clothing sits on a deserted beach, lost in thought, with a boat in the distance and a gray, cloudy sky above. The man's pose and expression convey sadness and introspection, contributing to the overall melancholic atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Munch's use of muted colors and bold brushstrokes creates a sense of depth and emotion. His distinctive post-impressionist style was influenced by his studies and the ideas of nihilist Hans Jæger.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the Munch Museum's collection. It reflects Munch's focus on inner turmoil and personal experience, shaped by his childhood marked by illness and loss.

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

Continue through works from the same source collection.

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