39. A Time for Renewal ("Spring Lingers in the Last of the Cherry Blossom") [1914]

Samuel Mützner will undertake one of the most interesting travels of his career, in Japan, between 1912-1915, while his work reflects the encounter with the Oriental civilisation, by altering paintbrush strokes and adopting a new chromatic harmony, in a style which distances itself from pointillism. Here is also where Mützner opens his first personal exhibition, in which he displays one part of the 400 canvases created under the influence of Japanese impressions. His most cherished place, where he would outline his artistic vision, is the ancient capital Kyoto, perhaps the "most fortunate place" as far as his creation is concerned, as the artist himself would confess at a later date. The result is reflected in broad images, featuring numerous characters, gender scenes, impressive displays of traditional elements, as well as typical costumes and attitudes. Strong contrasts disappear, while the light becomes somewhat toned down. Sheer shades of pastel pink, light lilac and pale green, spread themselves quietly. He would focus his attention on Buddhist and Shintoist temples, seven floor Pagodas, tea houses or street life, which he would render using alternative outlines in a smooth compositional rhythm. (A.A.)

References

ANDREESCU, Viorica, "Samuel Mützner", Meridiane Publishing House, Bucharest, 1974. MARIAN, Rodica, "Samuel Mützner", Antet Publishing House, Bucharest, 2005.

Dimensions

width 61 cm, height 53 cm, custom 53 × 61 cm

Description

oil on canvas, signed, dated and located, bottom right, with brown, "S. MÜTZNER, KYOTO-KITANO, 1914"

Research information

The artwork is reproduced in the monograph "Samuel Mützner", Rodica Marian, Antet Publishing House, Bucharest, 2005, at p. 65, under the title "In front of the house of prayer".

Dating

1914

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