“Illustration to “A Week of Kindness,” created by Max Ernst in 1934 in Paris, France, is a surrealist collage melding paper as the chosen medium. This work is part of the “A Week of Kindness” series and stands as an illustration with dimensions of 18 x 13 cm. It is housed in the Staatsgalerie Stuttgart in Stuttgart, Germany.
The artwork depicts an enigmatic scene constructed from various paper collage elements, fitting within Max Ernst’s surrealist style. In the foreground, a woman kneels on the floor, appearing to engage with small fantastical creatures, suggesting an otherworldly or dreamlike narrative. Dominating the midground is a man in traditional attire who is bent over, possibly mourning, with his back to the viewer. To their right, two men, dressed formally, are engaged in a peculiar hand-kissing gesture, creating a sense of ritual or mystery. A conspicuous framed picture hangs on the wall, portraying a figure in deep contemplation, which amplifies the surreal and contemplative atmosphere of the scene. The intricate details, juxtaposed elements, and surreal composition combine to evoke curiosity and introspection in the viewer.
