Lot Essay
In Bern during 1903-1905 Klee executed an exquisite series of etchings which display his propensity for satire and precision of line. Very few drawings survive from before or during this period. In 1905, he had his first truly productive year; he made 39 drawings, etchings and paintings on glass. For the next several years he resorted to more naturalistic means of expression in order to counter the finely-rendered classical style of the early etchings, frequently drawing figures seen on the street or town--and landscapes. By the time of his arrival in Munich in 1908, he had taken his insights even deeper, making drawings which are "psychological and anatomical improvisations." (W. Grohmann, Paul Klee, Drawings, New York, 1960, p. 18)
In November, 1908, Klee wrote in his diaries:
In fact I am beginning to see a way to provide a place for my line. I am at last finding my way out of the dead-end of ornamentation where I found myself one day in 1907!
With new strength from my naturalistic études, I may dare to enter my prime realm of psychic improvisation again. Bound only very indirectly to an impression of nature, I may dare to give form to what burdens the soul. To note experiences that can turn themselves into linear compositions even in the blackest night. Here a new creative possibility has long since been awaiting me, which only my frustration resulting from isolation interfered with in the past. Working in this way, my real personality will express itself, will be able to emancipate itself into the greatest freedom. (ed. F. Klee, Diaries of Paul Klee, 1898-1918, Berkeley and Los Angeles, 1964, p. 232)
In November, 1908, Klee wrote in his diaries:
In fact I am beginning to see a way to provide a place for my line. I am at last finding my way out of the dead-end of ornamentation where I found myself one day in 1907!
With new strength from my naturalistic études, I may dare to enter my prime realm of psychic improvisation again. Bound only very indirectly to an impression of nature, I may dare to give form to what burdens the soul. To note experiences that can turn themselves into linear compositions even in the blackest night. Here a new creative possibility has long since been awaiting me, which only my frustration resulting from isolation interfered with in the past. Working in this way, my real personality will express itself, will be able to emancipate itself into the greatest freedom. (ed. F. Klee, Diaries of Paul Klee, 1898-1918, Berkeley and Los Angeles, 1964, p. 232)