The Kiss IV, 1902 (printed c. 1913)
Woodcut in gray and black inkexpand_more
The Herschel V. Jones Fund, by exchangeexpand_more P.79.59
Not on Viewexpand_more
The Kiss is a subject that Munch returned to several times from 1895 to 1902. He first explored the motif in a painting and an etching before embarking on this woodcut version, which stresses a more simplified, abstract composition. In this print, Munch cut the figures out of one block of wood, roughly gouging away the faces and hands. Over this he printed a piece of wood with a strong vertical grain in a light shade of grey, making it seem as if the kiss is as elemental as nature itself. The result is an image with a profound resonance, a timeless symbol of intimacy and unity.
Details
- Title
- The Kiss IV
- Artist Life
- 1863 - 1944
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- P.79.59
- Provenance
- (David Tunick, Inc., New York, agent for MIA, at Parke Bernet, New York, 5/16/79); sold to MIA, 1979.
- Catalogue Raisonne
- Scheifler 102 D/D; MM G 580; Woll 204 a III 1
- Curator Approved
This record is from historic documentation and may not have been reviewed by a curator, so may be inaccurate or incomplete. Our records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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