“Consolation” is a figurative artwork created by Norwegian artist Edvard Munch in 1894. The drypoint piece, associated with the Impressionism movement, measures 20.6 x 31.1 cm. This artwork is a prime example of Munch’s emotional and evocative style.
The image depicts the intimate moment between two figures; it appears to capture a scene of comfort or sorrow, where one figure embraces the other. The embrace suggests a moment of consolation, as the title implies. The composition is intimate, with the two figures filling the frame, emphasizing the personal nature of the interaction.
Munch’s use of drypoint allows for soft lines and a sense of immediacy. The shadows and sketchy lines add to the emotional intensity of the scene. The background consists of patterned wallpaper, which is lightly etched, indicating that the setting is domestic but the exact details are not the focus of the work. The emphasis remains on the human connection and the emotional exchange between the figures. It’s a moving portrayal of compassion and empathy, showing Munch’s deep exploration into the human psyche.