“Melancholy,” created by Edvard Munch in 1892, is a seminal work of the Expressionism movement. Crafted with oil on canvas, it measures 64 by 96 centimeters and belongs to the genre painting category. This evocative artwork is housed in the National Gallery, located in Oslo, Norway.
The artwork, “Melancholy,” by Edvard Munch, depicts a brooding figure resting his head on his hand in the foreground, with his gaze seemingly directed towards the ground. The color palette is dominated by moody blues and muted tones, conveying a somber atmosphere. A calm body of water stretches across the middle ground, leading towards an evening sky that merges with the sea at the horizon. A few boats and small houses can be seen in the distance, enhancing the sense of solitude and introspection. The setting appears to be a tranquil coastal landscape at dusk. The rough, expressive brushstrokes and the dark, contemplative theme exemplify the characteristics of Expressionism, focusing on the internal feelings rather than the external reality. The overall effect is one that resonates with the viewer’s own experiences of melancholy and reflection.