Memory 1905

Aladar Korosfoi-Kriesch made this monochromatic ink drawing called ‘Memory’ at an unknown date. Can you imagine the scene? The artist probably wanted to convey the burden of remembrance, but maybe he was just doodling. The angel hunches over, weighed down by memory, I suppose, she is shielding herself with her massive wings. And then you see that figure standing, looming, draped in heavy, patterned fabrics. It’s like memory personified, or maybe it’s the muse of memory? There is something so satisfying about that long, snaky line at the bottom. It anchors the composition, giving it weight and balance, while introducing an unsettling dimension. What does that snake mean? I wonder if Kriesch struggled with these questions, too? It kind of reminds me of the Symbolists, they were also interested in this combination of psychological and emotional themes. But this feels more intimate, like a page from a sketchbook. I imagine Kriesch was experimenting with form, line, and composition, allowing the image to evolve organically, as he gave expression to his inner world. That’s what all artists are trying to do, anyway.