The artwork “Ad Parnassum” by Paul Klee is a notable work from 1932, created using oil on canvas. Belonging to the Expressionism movement, the artwork measures 126 by 100 centimeters and depicts a cityscape. It is held in the Kunstmuseum Bern located in Bern, Switzerland. As a piece of cityscape genre painting, “Ad Parnassum” exemplifies the innovative style and sensibilities of the Expressionist movement.
The artwork is distinguished by its geometric abstraction and the precise application of small blocks of color, evoking the sense of a mosaic. Dominated by a pyramidal structure, it features an intersection of sharp diagonals and horizontal lines. The warm and cool hues—ranging from vibrant oranges to tranquil blues—blend together, suggesting depth and fostering an intricate layering effect.
At the apex of the triangular form, a celestial orange circle represents the sun. The meticulous placement of color patches creates a dynamic play of light and shadow, contributing to the structural complexity of the composition. Paul Klee’s signature style is evident in the harmonious balance between the systematic arrangement of forms and the whimsical touches of color variation, producing a visually rich and stimulating tableau that invites contemplative exploration.
