Edvard Munch: Masterpieces from Bergen

Edvard Munch's 18 major works from the KODE Art Museums in Bergen are showcased in a major exhibition at The Courtauld Gallery in London. The exhibition and catalogue highlight the collection of Rasmus Meyer, one of the first significant collectors of Munch's work. The paintings span Munch's artistic development, from his early 'realist phase' to his expressive and psychologically charged works of the 1890s. The exhibition includes seminal works such as Morning (1884) and Summer Night (1889), as well as his famous 'Frieze of Life series' paintings, which address profound themes of human existence. The publication includes a catalogue of the works, with contributions by leading experts.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 136 pages
Publication date: 05 June 2022
Publisher: Paul Holberton Publishing Ltd

Edvard Munch, one of the greatest modern artists, is celebrated in a major exhibition at The Courtauld Gallery, London, accompanied by a comprehensive catalogue showcasing 18 significant works from the collection of KODE Art Museums in Bergen. This remarkable collection, assembled by the Norwegian industrialist, mill owner, and philanthropist Rasmus Meyer (1858–1916), represents one of the most important holdings of paintings by Munch worldwide. Meyer, who had a personal connection with Munch, was astute in acquiring key canvases that charted the artist's artistic development.

Edvard Munch: Masterpieces from Bergen delves into the depth of this extraordinary group of works, shedding light on the pivotal role played by Rasmus Meyer as a collector. The exhibition and publication feature seminal paintings from Munch's early 'realist phase of the 1880s, including Morning (1884), created when the artist was just twenty years old, and Summer Night (1889), a pivotal work that marked his transition towards the expressive and psychologically charged style for which he became renowned. These early paintings laid the foundation for Munch's illustrious career, paving the way for his renowned and intensely expressive paintings of the 1890s.

The exhibition showcases a remarkable selection of canvases from Munch's celebrated 'Frieze of Life series, including Evening on Karl Johan (1892), Melancholy (1894–96), and At the Death Bed (1895). These works, characterized by their powerful projections of emotions and imaginative states, exemplify Munch's profound artistic expression.

The catalogue provides a comprehensive exploration of the exhibition, featuring essays by renowned art historians and curators, as well as detailed images of the paintings. It sheds light on Munch's life and work, exploring his influences, artistic processes, and the societal and cultural context in which he created his masterpieces.

This important publication and exhibition offer a unique opportunity to witness the extraordinary talent and visionary of Edvard Munch, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. The exhibition and catalogue serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of Munch's art, showcasing his profound contribution to the world of visual culture.

Weight: 532g
Dimension: 216 x 261 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913645274