Skt. Adolfina, Mariili, und Wiegalinda Giselar (1920)

Adolfina, Mariili, und Wiegalinda Giselar" (1920) by Adolf WölfliThis captivating art piece by the Swiss artist Adolf Wölfli is a testament to his intricate and deeply symbolic style. Titled "Skt. Adolfina, Mariili, und Wiegalinda Giselar", this work intricately combines text and imagery to create a viscerally engaging composition.The painting is divided into several horizontal bands, each filled with richly colored text blocks or decorative patterns that resemble woven tapestries. The top section features the title "Skt. Adolfina" marked with decorative script, encapsulated within a textured border resembling carved wood. Below, the names "Mariili" and "Wiegalinda" are also inscribed, each separated by vibrant, colored lines, giving the appearance of layers or strata, perhaps suggesting different realms or worlds.Significantly, the lower portion of the artwork showcases a striking series of faces, symmetrically arranged and framed by what looks like stylized architectural elements—a nod to Wölfli's obsession with systems and order. These faces, adorned with crowns and framed by circular forms, reflect a sense of regal mystery, possibly alluding to saints or angelic beings referenced by their names in the title.Wölfli’s use of dense patterns, symmetrical layouts, and embedded text conveys a complex narrative depth, inviting viewers to ponder the connections between the visual elements and the meanings of the names. His work, often characterized by an intense personal iconography, challenges the viewer to decipher its symbols, blending the boundaries between written language and visual expression.