Artwork

Group of Figures

Group of Figures, by Edvard Munch, charcoal, 1909
Group of Figures, by Edvard Munch, charcoal, 1909

Group of Figures is a charcoal painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Edvard Munch. It dates from 1909 and is held in the collection of the Munch Museum.

About this work

Overview

Group of Figures is a charcoal work created by Edvard Munch in 1909. It is characterized by rough, unfinished lines and a simple composition.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a group of figures gathered together, but their activity or emotion is not clearly defined. The ambiguity of the scene is a hallmark of Munch's exploration of emotional and psychological states.

Technique & Style

Executed in charcoal on a beige background, the work is marked by simplicity and a lack of detail. The rough, sketch-like quality suggests an early stage in the creative process.

History & Provenance

The work is part of the collection at the Munch Museum, reflecting its significance within the artist's oeuvre.

Context

Munch's work was influenced by his experiences and studies, including his time at the Royal School of Art and Design in Oslo and the ideas of nihilist Hans Jæger.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Edvard Munch

Artist

Edvard Munch

Edvard Munch ( MUUNK; Norwegian: ; 12 December 1863 – 23 January 1944) was a Norwegian painter.

Munch Museum

Museum

Munch Museum

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