Created by Egon Schiele in 1910, the artwork entitled “City on the Blue River” is a notable example from the Expressionist movement. Measuring 41.2 cm by 30.8 cm, this cityscape interprets the urban environment through the artist’s subjective perspective and emotional response. The original work is currently held in a private collection, signifying its value and exclusivity within the realm of fine arts.
The artwork illustrates a dense cluster of buildings that appear tightly packed against one another, possibly suggesting the crowded nature of urban living. The composition is marked by angular rooftops and irregular architecture, rendered with a rough, almost tactile application of paint. Schiele’s characteristic use of bold lines is evident in delineating the forms of the houses and structures. The color palette is dominated by dark tones, with the light and shadow creating a stark contrast that emphasizes the textures of the building materials. The title may suggest the presence or significance of a river within the scene, but the painting itself is more focused on the architecture and its dramatic interplay with light, rather than any specific geographic features. As an Expressionist work, it is notable for its emotional intensity and the way the artist’s personal feelings seem to permeate through the urban landscape being depicted.
