Artwork

Moonlit Night (Mondnacht)

Moonlit Night (Mondnacht), by Max Klinger, ink, 1881
Moonlit Night (Mondnacht), by Max Klinger, ink, 1881

Moonlit Night (Mondnacht) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Max Klinger. It dates from 1881 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Moonlit Night is a print created by Max Klinger in 1881 using etching and aquatint techniques. It is a representative work of the artist, who was active across various mediums including painting, sculpture, and printmaking.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene nocturnal mountain scene, with a solitary figure seated by a river, facing a moonlit waterfall. The cliffs and rocky landscape form a dramatic backdrop, evoking a sense of stillness and contemplation.

Technique & Style

Klinger's use of etching and aquatint achieves a range of tonal variations and textural effects, creating depth and suggesting movement in the still scene. The soft tones and careful lines contribute to a dreamy atmosphere, characteristic of the artist's exploration of graphic arts as a distinct medium.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Max Klinger

Artist

Max Klinger

Max Klinger (18 February 1857 – 5 July 1920) was a German artist who produced significant work in painting, sculpture, prints and graphics, as well as writing a treatise articulating his ideas on art and the role of…

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