“The Column,” created by Paul Klee in 1926, is characterized as an abstract artwork influenced by the abstract art movement. Consistent with Klee’s penchant for innovation and exploration within abstraction, this artwork offers a complex interplay of forms and colors.
The artwork presents a composition with a central columnar figure surrounded by varying abstract shapes which appear to be diffused and somewhat rhythmic. The subtle but diverse color palette suggests a background that softly transitions from light to dark, providing a sense of depth. The central column itself is delineated with vertical stripes, standing as a stark contrast to the more ambiguous shapes that surround it. These shapes could be interpreted as geometric forms — some even resembling intricate labyrinths or mazes — that float within the ethereal atmosphere Klee has constructed. The texture within the artwork is delicate, with the paint application appearing gentle, contributing to the overall dreamlike quality of the piece.