The artwork titled “After annealing” was created by Paul Klee in 1940. This piece, measuring 29.5 by 21 centimeters, exemplifies the Cubism and Fauvism art movements and is classified as a cityscape. The formal attributes of these movements are reflected in the painting’s style and thematic expression.
The artwork depicts an abstract representation of an urban scene, employing a juxtaposition of geometric shapes and blocks of color, characteristic of Cubist influences. The use of bright, bold colors, somewhat reflective of Fauvist tendencies, contributes to the vibrant and somewhat emotional effect emanating from the canvas. Viewers can discern the outlines of buildings and structures, possibly towers or facades, emerging from the canvas’s patchwork of hues. The color palette is diverse, featuring reds, blues, yellows, and greens, while the composition is fragmented, each part contributing to the whole yet maintaining a distinct identity.
Textures within this piece are implied through the apparent variation in brushwork, suggesting different materials or surfaces. Despite the abstraction, there exists a semblance of depth and perspective, with the architectural elements overshadowing what could be interpreted as the landscape or the foreground. This suggests an urban environment as the subject matter, uniquely interpreted through the artist’s personal lens and approach to color and form. The work is a testament to Klee’s innovative and interpretative use of the modernist principles that defined the early 20th century art scene.