The Artist's Sitting Room in Ritterstrasse

Adolph Menzel

Created:
Movement:
1851
Realism
key Notes:
Intimate domesticity, detailed realism
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Dimensions:
12 5/8 x 10 5/8 in. (32.1 x 27 cm)
medium:
Oil on cardboard
story of the work:

"The Artist's Sitting Room in Ritterstrasse" is a painting by German artist Adolph Menzel, created in 1851. The work depicts Menzel's studio, reflecting his interest in the interplay of light and shadow. It showcases a variety of objects, including art supplies and personal belongings, which provide insight into the artist's daily life and creative process. Menzel was known for his meticulous attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of his subjects. The painting is significant for its intimate portrayal of the artist's environment, emphasizing the connection between the artist and their workspace. It is part of Menzel's broader oeuvre, which includes historical scenes and portraits. The current location of the painting is unknown.

Description of the work:

"The Artist's Sitting Room in Ritterstrasse" by Adolph Menzel, created in 1851, is an oil painting on cardboard that captures an intimate interior scene. The composition features a well-furnished room, characterized by a mix of artistic clutter and personal belongings. Menzel employs a muted color palette, dominated by earthy tones, which enhances the sense of warmth and familiarity. The light source, likely from a window, casts soft shadows and highlights, creating depth and dimension within the space. Various objects, including books, art supplies, and furniture, are rendered with meticulous detail, reflecting Menzel's keen observational skills. The arrangement of items suggests a lived-in environment, indicative of the artist's daily life and creative process. The overall atmosphere conveys a sense of comfort and artistic endeavor, inviting viewers into the private world of the artist.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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The Artist's Sitting Room in Ritterstrasse