Czóbel Béla Bergeni Szélmalom 1917 1917

Béla Czóbel painted "Bergen Windmill" in 1917, using oil on canvas. Painted during World War I, this landscape presents a scene of rural life, seemingly untouched by the conflict raging across Europe. Czóbel, a Hungarian-Jewish artist, lived through a period of intense social and political upheaval. Yet, rather than directly addressing the war, he turns his attention to the intimate and pastoral. This choice can be seen as both a form of escapism and a subtle commentary on the enduring beauty of the natural world amidst human conflict. The thick brushstrokes and earthy tones evoke a sense of groundedness and stability. The windmill, a symbol of industry, is softened by the surrounding trees and fields, creating a dialogue between human progress and nature's resilience. This painting offers a quiet, reflective space, removed from the turmoil of the time. It invites us to consider the different ways artists respond to historical events.