Rilke: The Duino Elegies 1984

Maria Bozoky made this watercolor and ink drawing, titled Rilke: The Duino Elegies, sometime in the 20th century. She conjures the ethereal and philosophical themes present in Rilke's poetry, specifically the Duino Elegies, through layered figures and symbolic use of color. Considered one of the most important collection of poems of the twentieth century, Rilke’s Duino Elegies grapples with themes of existence, suffering, and the search for meaning in a fragmented world. Bozoky's artistic interpretation echoes the sense of longing and spiritual inquiry found in Rilke's verses. The angel figure, a recurring image in the Elegies, embodies both beauty and terror and looms over a solitary figure, representing human vulnerability. The juxtaposition of vibrant and somber tones, further enhances the emotional depth of the artwork. As art historians, we look to primary sources and cultural contexts to understand the meaning of art. The Duino Elegies are a product of cultural and institutional settings, and by examining the historical and intellectual milieu in which they emerged, and the artist that engaged with them, we come to a richer understanding of their lasting impact on visual culture.