“Staffelalp by Moonlight” is an artwork created by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner in 1918. Kirchner was a notable figure in the Expressionist movement. The artwork is a landscape genre piece with dimensions of 31.3 x 38 cm. This painting captures a scene illuminated by moonlight, reflecting the Expressionism style of art, where emotion and subjective interpretation are prioritized over realistic representation.
The artwork presented showcases a dynamic and dramatic landscape under the glow of moonlight, which amplifies the emotional intensity characteristic of Expressionism. The use of stark contrasts between dark and light areas, with the moonlight appearing to break through the night sky, creates a vivid interplay of shadows and highlights across the terrain. Bold, sweeping lines and angular forms suggest the rugged texture of the landscape, giving the image a sense of movement and energy. The composition is dominated by dark tones, with the light of the moon providing a stark contrast that guides the viewer’s eye through the scene. The image feels alive with motion and is imbued with an almost palpable tension, inviting viewers to engage with the landscape on a sensory and emotive level.