Created by Norwegian artist Edvard Munch in 1895, The Scream is an iconic lithograph that features a figure on a bridge with the inscription “Geschrei” – translated to “scream” – in German. Its lower right-hand corner bears the phrase “Ich fühlte das grosse Geschrei durch die Natur,” which means “I felt a great scream pass through nature.”
Munch produced several versions of The Scream between 1893 and 1910, with the 1895 pastel-on-board version selling for a record-breaking $120 million in 2012. Its popularity can be attributed to its vivid display of angst and anxiety, which has resonated with audiences throughout history.
The lithographic version of The Scream (1895) showcased Munch’s commitment to his artistic vision by reimagining an already powerful piece in another form. Through this variation, he utilized different tools and techniques such as printmaking that allowed for mass production while still maintaining its authenticity. Today, it remains one of the most recognizable pieces in art history and stands as a testament to Munch’s impact on visual culture.
