The artwork “KOP” was created by artist Paul Klee in 1939. It is a portrait that embodies the essence of the Expressionist movement. Currently, the artwork is housed at the Zentrum Paul Klee in Bern, Switzerland. This particular piece is representative of Klee’s unique style, which often blended elements of cubism, surrealism, and abstraction, while also retaining a distinctively expressionistic character.
Upon examining the artwork, it consists of a central figure drawn with delicate, sketchy lines which lends it an ephemeral, dream-like quality typical of Klee’s oeuvre. The figure appears to be a whimsical, abstracted interpretation of a humanoid form, with elongated limbs and a contorted posture that strays far from realistic human proportions. Its head, topped with feather-like protrusions, is turned upwards, and it holds a staff or pole that extends beyond the upper boundary of the work. On this staff perches another, smaller creature, mimicking the postures and traits of the larger figure.
The ground upon which the figures stand is suggested with mere hints of texture and form, in line with Klee’s often minimalistic approach to backgrounds. Other smaller forms and symbols scattered around the base contribute to the enigmatic and poetic nature of the piece. Subtle tonal variations, the play of light and shadow, and the gestural quality of the lines used to render the figures combine to evoke a sense of movement and ethereal lightness. Overall, “KOP” captures a fantastical scene that invites viewers to interpret its mysterious figures and narrative through their own lens of imagination and emotion, quintessential to the interpretive freedom encouraged by Expressionism.
