The artwork titled “Before the Blitz” was created by Paul Klee in 1923. It is a gouache painting that reflects the Expressionist movement. The piece measures 28 by 31.5 centimeters and falls within the cloudscape genre.
Upon examining the artwork, one can observe a play of vertical color bands that create a somewhat stratified background, shifting through various hues of green, yellow, and beige. Superimposed upon this chromatic groundwork is a central geometrical composition that features an upward-pointing arrow juxtaposed against a downward-pointing counterpart above it. The central focal point is dominated by a large purple circle, imbuing the piece with a contrasting pop of color against the more subdued background. The overall composition suggests a deliberate arrangement of shapes and directions, possibly evoking a sense of movement or tension. The use of gouache provides the colors with a distinctive matte finish, characteristic of this medium, and contributes to the textural qualities of the work. Despite its title, which may invoke historical connotations, the abstract nature of the painting allows for a wide range of interpretations, leaving the viewer to ponder the connections between the title and the visual elements presented.
