Still Life with Duck and Snipe 1920

Ernst Ludwig Kirchner painted “Still Life with Duck and Snipe” using oil on canvas. The painting, executed around 1912, invites us to consider the social and cultural milieu of early 20th-century Germany. Kirchner, a key figure in the Expressionist movement, sought to convey emotional experience through bold colors and distorted forms. This still life transcends the genre, offering a glimpse into the intersection of nature and domesticity. Here, dead game birds are laid out on a tabletop with dainty tea service. What can we say about a society that enjoys hunting and appreciates fine things? The vibrant palette and exaggerated lines evoke a sense of unease, reflecting the disquietude and alienation felt by many during a time of rapid industrialization and social change. This painting encapsulates Kirchner's exploration of identity and the human condition amidst modernity's relentless march.