Artwork
Fasnachtshelge "Professor Piccard"
Fasnachtshelge "Professor Piccard" is an unspecified painting by Max Rickenbacher-Hufschmid. It dates from 1957 and is held in the collection of the Archaeology and Museum Baselland.
About this work
Overview
Fasnachtshelge 'Professor Piccard' is a mixed-media artwork created by Max Rickenbacher-Hufschmid around 1957, currently housed at the Museum of Ethnography.
Subject & Meaning
The artwork depicts a hybrid human-fish figure, 'Professor Piccard', in an underwater setting, blending whimsical elements (giant yellow balloon head, striped pants, green tail) with surreal objects (ship’s wheel, potted plant with starfish). Surrounding scribbled German text and doodles (plane, sardine can) suggest a narrative, potentially tied to a local festival or tradition, though specifics remain opaque due to the language barrier.
Technique & Style
Characterized by vibrant colors and a 'messy' aesthetic, the piece appears to be hand-drawn, emphasizing spontaneity and playfulness. The integration of text as a compositional element adds depth and intrigue.
History & Provenance
Created circa 1957 by Max Rickenbacher-Hufschmid, the artwork is part of the collection at the Museum of Ethnography, with no detailed provenance provided prior to its current holdings.
Context
While the exact context of 'Fasnachtshelge' (implying a connection to the Fasnacht carnival tradition) is not fully elucidated in the artwork, its themes of transformation and whimsy align with carnival spirit, suggesting a possible inspiration from Swiss or German carnival traditions.
Legacy
As a quirky, expressive piece within the Museum of Ethnography, it contributes to the institution’s showcase of eclectic and culturally nuanced artworks, inviting viewer engagement through its enigmatic narrative and visual playfulness.
Artist & collection
Artist
Max Rickenbacher-Hufschmid spent years drawing the same carnival clowns in Basel’s back alleys.
