The Thistle Flower House 1919

cardboard, oil

cardboard

17_20th-century

abstract painting

oil

landscape

flower

possibly oil pastel

handmade artwork painting

oil painting

jesus-christ

fluid art

acrylic on canvas

mountain

naive art

painting painterly

chaotic composition

watercolor

building

Paul Klee's "The Thistle Flower House" (1919) is a vibrant example of his distinctive style, blending elements of Expressionism and Surrealism. Executed in watercolor and ink on paper, the painting depicts an abstract landscape with stylized houses, trees, and a prominent, blossoming thistle. Klee's signature use of bold, flat colors, geometric forms, and whimsical details creates a dreamlike and fantastical atmosphere, inviting viewers to explore its symbolic depths. The artwork, housed in the Städel Museum, is a testament to Klee's innovative approach to visual language, which continues to inspire contemporary artists.

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stadelmuseum over 1 year ago

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Klee created this painting the same year he had finally been discharged from military service in the First World War. He settled in Munich and, for the first time, was intent on painting only in oil. Therein, plant and garden motifs played an important role. Klee gave his works poetic, enigmatic titles that went well with his playful painting style. He used them to steer the viewers’ perception of his art into a certain direction. In this case, the thistle hovering above the mysterious building as a symbol of Christ’s suffering is reminiscent of medieval art – which Klee had studied in much detail.