Looking Backward: Images of Rückenfiguren (ca. 1497–1925)
The concept of Rückenfiguren in art history, popularized by artists like Friedrich and Dalí, symbolizes solitude and introspection. It evolved across centuries, maintaining its essence in conveying hidden meanings.
Read original article
The article discusses the concept of Rückenfiguren, or back figures, in art history from the late 15th to the early 20th century. It explores how artists like Caspar David Friedrich and Carl Gustav Carus in German Romanticism used the back of figures to convey themes of solitude, contemplation, and the sublime in nature. The Rückenfigur became a significant motif in art, symbolizing a sense of mystery and introspection. The article also mentions how this theme was later adapted in various art forms, such as photography and book illustrations, to explore the relationship between the internal and external worlds. Artists like Gustave Caillebotte and Salvador Dalí continued to use Rückenfiguren to depict solitary figures contemplating landscapes or cityscapes. The Rückenfigur motif evolved over time, reflecting changing artistic styles and interpretations while maintaining its essence of conveying a sense of distance, introspection, and hidden meaning in art.
Related
The Vienna Secession: A History
The Vienna Secession movement, led by artists like Gustav Klimt, rebelled against traditional artistic norms in late 19th-century Vienna. Embracing modernist styles, they emphasized artistic freedom and unity of fine and applied arts.
Einstein and his peers were 'irrationally resistant' to black holes
Albert Einstein and peers initially resisted black hole concepts. Despite theoretical roots dating back a century, acceptance came in the 1960s with observational support. Einstein's work laid the foundation, but reluctance persisted due to clashes between evidence and personal beliefs.
The History of "The Rule of Thirds"
The history of the "rule of thirds" in photography is challenged, tracing back to John Thomas Smith's 1797 book. Evolution of compositional techniques and a shift towards modernism are explored, questioning traditional approaches.
Serpentine
The article explores serpent symbolism in world literature and translation, discussing their significance in various cultures. It delves into philosophical concepts, conflicting perceptions, and references in popular culture and mythology.
Art and Artifice
Donna Tartt's essay explores the distinction between true art and artifice, highlighting art's transcendent power and resistance to commercialization. She emphasizes art's role in challenging norms and fostering communal engagement.
0 commentsRelated
The Vienna Secession: A History
The Vienna Secession movement, led by artists like Gustav Klimt, rebelled against traditional artistic norms in late 19th-century Vienna. Embracing modernist styles, they emphasized artistic freedom and unity of fine and applied arts.
Einstein and his peers were 'irrationally resistant' to black holes
Albert Einstein and peers initially resisted black hole concepts. Despite theoretical roots dating back a century, acceptance came in the 1960s with observational support. Einstein's work laid the foundation, but reluctance persisted due to clashes between evidence and personal beliefs.
The History of "The Rule of Thirds"
The history of the "rule of thirds" in photography is challenged, tracing back to John Thomas Smith's 1797 book. Evolution of compositional techniques and a shift towards modernism are explored, questioning traditional approaches.
Serpentine
The article explores serpent symbolism in world literature and translation, discussing their significance in various cultures. It delves into philosophical concepts, conflicting perceptions, and references in popular culture and mythology.
Art and Artifice
Donna Tartt's essay explores the distinction between true art and artifice, highlighting art's transcendent power and resistance to commercialization. She emphasizes art's role in challenging norms and fostering communal engagement.