Sehnsucht (1921)

Anton Kolig's oil on canvas painting 'Sehnsucht'—a German term that translates to 'longing' or 'yearning'—is an evocative delve into the complex spectrums of human emotion and physical expression. Created in 1921, during a period of rich exploration in European art, Kolig, a member of the New Objectivity movement, provides his audience with a piece brimming with emotive energy and visual dynamism.This painting presents two juxtaposed figures, absorbed in a chaotic swirl of intense colors and robust brushwork that typifies Kolig’s style. The main figure, a robust, almost Herculean man, is positioned prominently and dominates the canvas. His body, shown in a state of strain or exertion, shimmers with a mosaic of vivid colors that suggest both the physical and emotional intensity of his situation. His upward gaze and raised, chained hands might suggest a metaphorical striving for freedom or an expression of existential struggle.Adjacent to him, a smaller figure—a boy—appears contemplative and subdued, observing the struggle of the elder or perhaps waiting in anticipation. This stark contrast both in size and mood sets a poignant narrative. The boy’s presence brings a dimension of innocence or passivity, serving as a foil to the dominant physicality and emotional tumult of the man.This striking composition, characterized by its vibrant contrast and expressive figures, encapsulates a moment of intense personal and possibly collective struggle. Through 'Sehnsucht,' Kolig may be exploring themes of constraint and freedom, pain and resilience, presenting a snapshot that gives the viewer ample space for emotional interpretation.