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Melancholy

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Official reproduction of Edvard Munch's work Melancholy, (1893) from MUNCH's collection. 

In the 19th century, "melancholy" referred to emotions such as grief, sadness, or hopelessness. The concept was historically tied to the idea of an imbalance in the four bodily fluids: blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile. While these ideas have been disproven, melancholy remains a powerful term used to describe mental states related to depression, isolation, and longing.

Edvard Munch explored this theme repeatedly in his oeuvre, creating numerous motifs of melancholic figures. These works often feature individuals portrayed in reflective or despondent poses, frequently hunched over or leaning forward, conveying their emotional turmoil.

This painting depicts a man seated in dark clothing, his head resting on his right hand, as he gazes out at a pier and the sea beyond. On the pier, two figures—a man in a white outfit and a woman dressed in black—stand side by side. While their forms are indistinct, they clearly represent an interaction, hinting at a dynamic that contrasts with the solitary figure in the foreground. The viewer is left to wonder if the man on the pier is the protagonist, observing himself in another time or space, or whether this scene is purely an imagined reflection of longing and despair.

Munch’s Melancholy motif has origins in art history, drawing inspiration from Albrecht Dürer's famous engraving Melencolia I (1514). Like Dürer, Munch ties the concept of melancholy to broader existential themes such as the transient nature of life and human frailty.

Melancholy was one of six paintings exhibited under the title “Love” in 1893, marking the beginning of Munch's Frieze of Life project. While the series evolved over the years, Melancholy remained a recurring motif. Munch often placed his protagonist in the foreground, with scenes unfolding behind them, capturing the tension between the inner and outer worlds. Here, the man’s closed-off posture and downward gaze invite viewers to reflect on his emotional isolation and the duality of reality versus imagination.

In the end, the painting leaves a lingering question: is the man witnessing a real interaction between the couple on the pier, or is the scene an illusion conjured by his melancholic mind?

Printed on museum-quality, FSC-certified paper (210 g/m²), this fine art print retains the depth and vibrancy of Munch’s original creation. Available in multiple sizes, it is perfect for creating a contemplative and artistic atmosphere in any space.

Features:
✔️ Officially licensed fine art print from MUNCH
✔️ Printed on premium, eco-friendly paper
✔️ Available in sizes: 30x40 cm, 50x70 cm, 70x100 cm
✔️ Option to purchase with or without a frame
✔️ A meaningful gift for art enthusiasts and admirers of Munch’s work

 

About the original:

  • The white ground was probably applied manually, and the canvas structure shines through in several places.
  • Title: 
    Melankoli (NO)
    Melancholy (EN)
  • Date: 1893
  • Classification: Paintings
  • Technique: Oil on canvas.
  • Owner / Collection: Munchmuseet

    About our prints

    Quality

    Matte Paper Poster:

    • Paper Finishing: Matte, smooth, non-reflective surface.
    • Paper Weight: 200 gsm, durable and long-lasting.
    • Environmental Impact: FSC-certified or equivalent paper, supporting sustainable practices.
    • Our heavy-weight, white, premium matte paper has a natural, smooth uncoated finish that feels luxurious to the touch.

    Framed Matte Paper Poster:

    • Ready-to-hang: Includes hanging kit, ready to hang directly on the wall.
    • Frame Material: Durable pine wood.
    • Frame Measurements: 20-25mm thick, 10-14mm wide.
    • Paper Weight: 200 gsm, thickness: 0.22 mm.
    • Paper Finishing: Matte, smooth, non-reflective surface.
    • Protection: Shatterproof plexiglass protects the poster.
    • Sustainable Paper: FSC-certified materials or equivalent.

    Printing

    Printing and framing is done by our print partner at a printing facility close to the customer. Because all posters are made to order, all sales are final and non-refundable.

    Shipping

    We are currently shipping to The EU and Norway.

    Shipping costs and delivery time is calculated at the checkout .

    Read more here.

    Was you order damaged upon arrival? Please send us an email with a description and pictures of the damage on the box and on the product, and we will help you resolve the issue. 

    Our selection

    This is the only place you will find reproductions approved by the MUNCH Museum. Many of the works offered through this store are exclusive and not available anywhere else.

    We regularly introduce new motifs from our vast collection. If you’ve fallen in love with a specific artwork and would like a reproduction, feel free to contact us, and we will gladly make it available for you.

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