The artwork “The Gramineous Bicycle Garnished with Bells the Dappled Fire Damps and the Echinoderms Bending the Spine to Look for Caresses,” created by Max Ernst in 1920, is a gouache painting on paper. It belongs to the Dada art movement and is classified as a symbolic painting. This artwork, measuring 74.3 x 99.7 cm, is currently housed in the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City, NY, United States. The piece originates from Cologne (Köln), Germany.
The artwork is a vivid representation of the Dada movement’s exploration of absurdity and non-conformity. It features a combination of abstract and surreal forms, with various biomorphic shapes interspersed throughout the composition. The centerpiece includes a structure resembling a bicycle, adorned with elaborate and intricate details. Surrounding this central figure are a series of whimsical and dreamlike shapes that twist and contort in various directions, creating a dynamic and engaging visual experience. The background is predominantly dark, accentuating the vibrant and contrasting colors of the forms. Max Ernst’s use of gouache allows for rich textures and a layered appearance, contributing depth to the fantastical scene depicted. The artwork invites viewers to engage in an imaginative journey, interpreting the symbolic and enigmatic elements within the painting.
