16637 (_Is the wonder …_) 1932

This abstract artwork, 16637 (_Is the wonder …_), was created by John Elsas. Little is known about Elsas, but he was an artist working in Germany in the early 20th century. The piece presents a curious, stylized figure that defies easy interpretation. Rendered in a palette of blues against a pale backdrop, the figure evokes a sense of otherworldliness, perhaps hinting at the exploration of identity and the unconscious. The accompanying inscription in German raises questions about the dawn of a 'better time.' This adds layers of socio-political commentary, especially considering the historical context of Germany in the early 20th century, marked by upheaval and the search for new social paradigms. The androgynous figure with its pointed lower half disrupts traditional representations of gender and form. In its enigmatic simplicity, the work invites an emotional and personal connection, prompting viewers to ponder the wonder of the self amidst historical and cultural shifts.