Provenance
Galerie Neue Kunst Hans Goltz, Munich [Paul Klee Foundation 2000]. Heinrich Stinnes (1867-1932), Cologne; Stinnes estate, Cologne; sold, Gutekunst and Klipstein, June 20-22, 1938, lot 524 (ill.).. Curt Valentin, New York, by 1938 [New York 1938]; sold to the Art Institute, 1943.
Accession Number
58842
Medium
Watercolor and black ink transfer on cream wove paper, mounted on cream card
Dimensions
26.8 × 25.4 cm (10 9/16 × 10 in.)
Classification
watercolor
Credit Line
Olivia Shaler Swan Memorial Collection
Background & Context
Background Story
Paul Klee's Garden on Debris suggests a garden growing on rubble, a paradoxical image of life emerging from destruction. This work likely dates from after Klee's return to Switzerland following the Nazi takeover.
Cultural Impact
Klee's late works often juxtapose growth and destruction, reflecting the political turmoil of the 1930s.
Why It Matters
This image of a garden on debris captures the paradox of life emerging from destruction.
