Artwork

Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [drittes Bild, Mitte]

Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [drittes Bild, Mitte], by Albert Welti, unspecified, 1911
Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [drittes Bild, Mitte], by Albert Welti, unspecified, 1911

Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [drittes Bild, Mitte] is an unspecified painting by the Symbolist artist Albert Welti. It dates from 1911 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich.

About this work

Overview

Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [drittes Bild, Mitte], painted in 1911 by Swiss artist Albert Welti, is a symbolist work housed in the Kunsthaus Zürich collection. It captures a vibrant gathering in a wooded setting, blending everyday life with suggestive, dreamlike elements characteristic of Welti's oeuvre.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a lively assembly in a forest clearing, defined by a prominent stone wall and a large tree. Figures in diverse, colorful attire (notably red and white striped accents) engage in a scene that conveys a sense of communal celebration or ritual, inviting interpretation of its symbolic depth.

Technique & Style

Executed in a style that aligns with the symbolist movement, the work combines realistic depictions of figures and landscape with an atmospheric, potentially symbolic environment. The contrast between the warmly lit, detailed foreground and the softer, snowy background adds to the piece's expressive quality.

History & Provenance

Created in 1911, the painting is part of Albert Welti's exploration of symbolist themes. It has been part of the Kunsthaus Zürich's collection, reflecting the institution's commitment to preserving Swiss modern art.

Context

Within the early 20th-century European art landscape, this work reflects the symbolist emphasis on capturing the mysterious and the emotional. Welti's use of a potentially mundane subject (a gathering) infused with dreamlike qualities aligns with the movement's goals.

Legacy

As a symbolist piece, Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [drittes Bild, Mitte] contributes to the broader understanding of how Swiss artists like Welti engaged with international movements. Its enduring presence in the Kunsthaus Zürich facilitates ongoing study and appreciation of early 20th-century Swiss symbolist art.

Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [zweites Bild, Mitte links]
Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [zweites Bild, Mitte links], Albert Welti

Artist & collection

Portrait of Albert Welti

Artist

Albert Welti

Albert Welti (18 February 1862 – 7 June 1912) was a Swiss painter and etcher. Many of his works depicted dreams or nightmares.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Kunsthaus Zürich open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [drittes Bild, Mitte]?

Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [drittes Bild, Mitte] was painted by Albert Welti in 1911.

Where can I see Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [drittes Bild, Mitte]?

Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [drittes Bild, Mitte] is held by Kunsthaus Zürich.

What movement is Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [drittes Bild, Mitte]?

Obwaldner Landsgemeinde [drittes Bild, Mitte] is associated with Symbolism.