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Every detail, painted by hand
Three spots of the painting, enlarged. Our artists reproduce each of them by hand, at the size you choose.
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The heart of the scene.
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Light and background.
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The brushwork.
The painting
Collectible Description
Experience the poignant beauty of Edvard Munch's 'Melancholy 2,' a lithograph capturing profound sadness and introspection through expressive lines and muted gray tones—a masterpiece of Expressionist Symbolism.
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Artist Biography
Expressionist pioneer Edvard Munch created the iconic The Scream. Discover his haunting masterpieces of anxiety and emotion today.
A Landscape of the Soul: The Haunting Resonance of Melancholy 2
In the vast, somber expanse of Edvard Munch’s 1891 lithograph, Melancholy 2, we encounter more than a mere depiction of a coastal scene; we step into a visceral manifestation of human sorrow. This masterpiece serves as a cornerstone of the Expressionist movement, where the artist moves beyond the boundaries of objective reality to map the turbulent contours of the inner psyche. The artwork presents a solitary figure seated upon a desolate beach, a composition that immediately envelops the viewer in a profound sense of isolation. Through his masterful use of distorted forms and a stripped-back visual language, Munch invites us to witness a moment of pure existential reflection, making this piece an essential acquisition for those who appreciate art that speaks directly to the depths of human emotion.
The technical execution of this work is a testament to Munch’s ability to communicate complex psychological states through simplified means. Utilizing the medium of lithography, the artist employs a stark, monochromatic palette of grays, ranging from the deepest blacks to ethereal whites. This lack of color strips away any potential for warmth, leaving only the raw, skeletal essence of the scene. The technique of hatching and cross-hatching is used not merely to create texture, but to build a palpable sense of unease across the sandy shore and the heavy sky. There is no traditional perspective here; instead, Munch utilizes a flattened image plane that compresses the space, pushing the weight of the landscape against the figure, effectively mirroring the suffocating nature of grief and introspection.
Symbolism and the Weight of Existence
Every element within Melancholy 2 is imbued with symbolic significance, designed to resonate with the viewer's own experiences of loss and longing. The central figure, with his head bowed deeply into his hands, becomes a universal icon of despair. This posture—a gesture of profound contemplation and retreat—is echoed by the vastness of the Norwegian coastline that surrounds him. The presence of a small boat drifting in the middle distance serves as a poignant metaphor for being adrift in one's own emotions, disconnected from the safety of the shore. Even the seemingly mundane detail of the figure's hat contributes to an atmosphere of anonymity, allowing any observer to project their own identity into this landscape of solitude.
For the discerning collector or interior designer, this artwork offers a unique opportunity to introduce a piece of profound historical and emotional gravity into a space. It is a work that demands attention, not through loud colors or intricate details, but through its quiet, commanding intensity. Whether placed in a contemplative study or as a focal point in a modern gallery-style living space, Melancholy 2 provides a sophisticated dialogue between the viewer and the history of modern art. It remains an enduring testament to Munch’s ability to transform personal tragedy into a universal language of beauty and existential truth.
Questions & Answers
What art movement does "Melancholy 2" by Edvard Munch belong to?
"Melancholy 2" is a work of Expressionism. The movement indicates the artistic tradition the work is part of.
Is "Melancholy 2" by Edvard Munch a light or a dark artwork?
"Melancholy 2" is brilliant overall, and its luminance is bright balance.
What kind of colors does "Melancholy 2" use?
The colors of "Melancholy 2" form a neutrals palette. This classification describes the dominant color families.
Edvard Munch
1863 - 1944, Sweden
The painter
Artist Biography
A Life Shaped by Loss
Edvard Munch arrived in the world in 1863, born into the stark landscapes of Norway. His early years were defined by a heavy presence of grief that would later find its way onto his canvases. The deaths of his mother and his sister, Sophie, both taken by tuberculosis, left a deep mark on his young mind. These losses created a preoccupation with mortality and the fragility of life that stayed with him forever. He grew up in a household where the shadows of sickness were never far away.
His father, Christian, was a physician who struggled with intense religious devotion and mental instability. This atmosphere of dread and the vivid ghost stories told in his childhood helped shape his later visions. Munch did not merely paint what he saw; he sought to externalize his internal state. He called this approach soul painting. It was a way to translate psychological distress into visual form, using the colors and shapes of his own experience.
The Path to Expressionism
Munch began his formal studies at the Royal School of Art and Design in Kristiania, which is now known as Oslo. During this time, he moved within bohemian circles that challenged the strict rules of academic art. A significant influence was Hans Jæger, a nihilist who encouraged Munch to abandon conventional styles and instead focus on his own subjective emotions. This shift led him toward the development of Expressionism.
Travels through Europe brought new perspectives to his work. In Paris, he encountered the techniques of artists like Paul Gauguin and Vincent van Gogh, particularly their use of color. In Berlin, his connections with figures such as August Strindberg further pushed his investigations into psychological themes. He began to move away from naturalistic representation, opting instead for distorted forms and rhythmic lines that could communicate the tremors of human existence.
Themes and Lasting Impact
Much of his work belongs to a series he called The Frieze of Life, where he explored the recurring cycles of love, fear, death, and anxiety. Some of his most recognized paintings include:
- The Scream: A work from 1893 that uses swirling, fiery landscapes to represent existential dread.
- Madonna: A piece that explores themes of sexuality and mortality.
- The Sick Child: A poignant reminder of the loss of his sister.
- Puberty: An exploration of the physical and psychological changes of youth.
Munch was a highly active printmaker, using techniques like etching, lithography, and woodcut to expand his reach. He possessed over one thousand paintings at the time of his death in 1944. His ability to confront the darker aspects of the human condition helped pave the way for later movements like German Expressionism. Today, much of his legacy is preserved in the Munch Museum in Oslo, where his work continues to speak to the complexities of the human psyche.
Quick facts about Edvard Munch
- Artistic Movement Or Style:
- Expressionism
- Symbolism
- Post-Impressionism
- Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['German Expressionism']
- Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
- Paul Gauguin
- Vincent van Gogh
- Toulouse-Lautrec
- Full Name: Edvard Munch
- Nationality: Norwegian
- Notable Artworks:
- The Scream
- Madonna
- The Sick Child
- Puberty
- Place Of Birth: Adelsbruk, Sweden
- Date Of Birth: 1863
- Date Of Death: 1944
Hand Made Oil Reproduction
Have it painted for you
Hand Made Oil Reproduction
Hand-painted oil on canvas in your size and frame, made to order by our artists. (
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Melancholy 2
Reproduction Medium
Reproduction Size
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Elite Senior Artist
More detail, finesse, and extra production time
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Reproduction Frame
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For artworks or reproductions larger than 105 cm (approximately 41 inches) on any side, the frame will be shipped as a kit, disassembled. This method ensures safe delivery and prevents damage during transport.
Professional assembly required - this is not a DIY product.
The kit must be assembled and the canvas stretched by an experienced professional framer, using wood glue (not supplied), a canvas stretching plier and clamps to hold the bars square while the glue dries. Incorrect assembly or uneven canvas tension can permanently damage the artwork and is not covered by our warranty.
For artworks or reproductions larger than 105 cm (approximately 41 inches) on any side, the frame will be shipped as a kit, disassembled. This method ensures safe delivery and prevents damage during transport.All solid wood bars are included, precisely cut to size.
Assembled with the screws provided, plus wood glue for the corner joints, which is not supplied and must be sourced by your framer.
Professional tools are required and not included: a canvas stretching plier (tensioner) and clamps to hold the bars square while the glue dries.
Important:
The corner joints require wood glue, the bars must be held with clamps until the glue is fully dry, and tightening the canvas on the assembled frame requires a canvas stretching plier. None of these are included in the kit. Please arrange an experienced professional framer before ordering this size.
Nameplate
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Protective Varnish
Glossy Varnish (enhances colors, protects against light/moisture)
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Customize My Artwork
Examples of what can be changed: Replace face with customer photo; Add pet (e.g., replace cat with dog); Include hidden message in background; Change background landscape or elements.
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Urgent
Worldwide Delivery () in 3/4 weeks instead of standard 5 weeks. (9 November). No compromise on quality.
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Express Shipping
Worldwide Delivery () in 5 weeks. (16 November).
Included
Total Price
$ 265
Glass option is only available in size under 110 CM
i.
Scale
Slide to your wall: every size keeps the proportions of the original.
Pick from our preset sizes that match the artwork's original proportions.
Type the width and the height you need, to fit your frame or your wall. This is hand-painted, so for a size with a different shape the artist can paint a bit more around the picture, or cut a bit — you choose. We send you a digital mockup to approve before the painting starts. The picture shown on this page does not show the real result — only the mockup does.
ii.
Frame
The frame is drawn on the painting at its true width.
Framed
White $1
Blurside $1
Extended $1
P118B $10
P118H $10
P118W $10
P438Z $10
P508JH $12
P508YH $12
P805H $10
P805Z $10
P919BZ $10
P919G $10
P919XJ $10
P959ZH $10
P968JZ $12
W106C $8
W218G $10
W218JH $8
W218Y $10
W307PJ $10
W316G $10
W316PJ $8
W316Y $10
W398PJ $8
W4111J $10
W500HY $15
W500JH $15
W692G $12
W849H $8
W940BG $15
W953PJ $8
H24-GOLD $30
H24-SILVER $30
H36-GOLD $45
H36-SILVER $45
iii.
Make it yours
A painting made by hand can be made for one person.
iv.
Finishing
Nameplate, varnish and delivery.
Nameplate
Engraved Bronze Plaque Details
This elegant plaque features the artist's name and the title of the artwork, finely engraved for a timeless presentation.
It is made from bronze with a refined, elegant finish. The text is precisely laser-engraved for a sharp and permanent result. Measuring 9x2 cm, the plaque is compact yet easy to read. It's built to be durable and scratch-resistant, offering a professional, museum-quality look. Mounting is simple thanks to the included adhesive backing.
Transparent Acrylic Plaque Details
The plaque includes essential engraved details such as the artist's name, the title of the artwork, the date it was created, the type of media used-like oil on canvas or watercolor-a brief description of the piece, and a QR code that links to the complete artwork information.
It is crafted from clear acrylic, offering a sleek, modern appearance. The text is UV-engraved in black to ensure strong visual contrast. With a size of 10x15 cm, it ensures optimal readability. It comes equipped with two metal hooks for secure wall mounting. The plaque is designed to be weather-resistant, making it suitable for various environments, and it includes interactive features that work seamlessly with smartphone scanning.
Black Acrylic Plaque Details
This elegant plaque includes engraved information such as the artist's name, the title of the artwork, the date it was created, the type of media used (like oil on canvas or watercolor), a short description of the artwork, and a QR code for quick access to more information.
The plaque itself is made from refined black acrylic with a premium finish. The text is laser-engraved in white for high contrast and readability. Its size is 10x15 cm, designed to be easy to read. It comes with two metal hooks for professional mounting. The design is sleek and fits any interior style. It is also weather-resistant and durable, with built-in digital integration for mobile compatibility.
Protective Varnish
Urgent Production
Worldwide Delivery () in 3/4 weeks instead of standard 5 weeks. (9 November). No compromise on quality.
- Free Worldwide Express Shipping
- High-Quality Linen Canvas
- Full Shipping Insurance
- Customs Tax Refund Guarantee
- True Color Matching Guarantee
- 100-Day Return Policy (Defects Only)
- 100% Money-Back Guarantee
- Bulk Discount Offer
Quick facts and art quiz
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