Official reproduction of Edvard Munch's work The Sun, (1912-1913) from MUNCH's collection.
Edvard Munch’s The Sun stands as one of the artist’s most monumental and abstract works, serving as the focal point of the murals he created for the University of Oslo’s Aula in 1911.
In The Sun, Munch visualized the impossible—an attempt to depict something as blinding and intangible as sunlight itself. To stare directly at the sun is to invite blindness, yet Munch translates this overwhelming experience into color and form. At the heart of the painting, the solar disk radiates with an intense, cool bluish-white glow, contrasting against the slightly warmer tones of the prepared canvas. Surrounding the sun, Munch’s dynamic, outward-stretching lines mimic the optical effects of light, creating an almost pulsating energy that recalls the Italian Futurist concept of “lines of force.” These concentric circles and wave-like rock formations give the impression of a centrifugal force—bending and distorting the landscape in a filmic, almost hallucinatory manner.
The inspiration for this motif can be traced to the coastal town of Kragerø, where Munch lived while working on the university project. After exploring various possibilities for the central image of the Aula murals, he settled on The Sun as a direct symbol of enlightenment, both in a literal and intellectual sense. The sun, with its radiant glow and life-giving force, was an apt representation of the university’s aspirations—illuminating knowledge, growth, and progress.
At the same time, the painting reflects Norway’s emerging role in scientific research. In the early 20th century, the country had become a center for electromagnetic studies, largely through the work of the physicist Kristian Birkeland, whose research on the Northern Lights linked natural phenomena with modern scientific inquiry. This connection between nature and innovation is evident in The Sun, where Munch seamlessly merges the organic beauty of the Norwegian landscape with the university’s scientific identity.
With its intense color contrasts, freely applied lines, and bold abstract vision, The Sun is a defining example of European expressionism on a grand scale. It remains one of Munch’s most powerful works—both a celebration of nature’s raw energy and a reflection of humanity’s pursuit of knowledge and discovery.
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:
- Title:
Solen (NO)
The Sun (EN) - Die Sonne (DE)
- Date: 1912-1913
- Classification: Paintings
- Technique: Oil on canvas
- Unsigned
- 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.