In the year 1514 the German painter and engraver Albrect Dürer made his most famous engraving, 'Melencolia'.
The engraving is an allegory describing the creative melancholy of the artist and is thought to be a symbolic self portrait. Dürer's Melencolia is replete with alchemical symbolism related directly to much of the symbolism in the 1934 drawing.
Picasso was a great admirer of Dürer and owned at least one original print by the artist, given to him by Max Jacob; he also owned a an expensive German edition of reproductions of Dürer's work.
Dürer's theme of Saturnalian Melancholy appears to have been derived from a treatise by a German physician named Heinrich von Nettesham, written around 1510, and entitled 'De occulta philosophia.'
Since classical times artistic Melencolia was thought of as a depressed state of mind that takes away an artist's enthusiasm for his work. It's cure was believed by Renaissance astrologer's to be aided by the charm of a magic square and in particular the Jupiter magic square which appears in the upper right hand corner of Dürer's engraving. The square is magic because each row, each column and each diagonal, add up to the same number, which in the Jupiter magic square is 34. The numerals 3 and 4 also denote special importance in Alchemy because they represent the spiritual transformation of the alchemist. 3 symbolises the limited, finite life of the physical world and everyday existence and 4 symbolises the infinite realm of the spirit and the cosmos. Their product is 12, the number of Tarot card the Hanged Man, which in turn symbolises the union of physical life and spiritual life.
In a similar way Picasso hid the date of production into the 1934 drawing. The digits '34' appear in many places within the black ink of the composition, but are only made visible after computer enhancement.
The square format of the drawing is rare in Picasso's work, and in this case, it appears to signify that the drawing is itself a magic square, intended to charm off the melancholy that was beginning to affect Picasso's life at the time.
The two pictures also contain very similar iconography, in each there is a dog, a ladder, two angels, the tools of the artist's trade: paints and a brush in the Picasso and woodworking tools in the Dürer. All this leaves little doubt that Dürer's greatest engraving was an important source in the creation of the 1934 drawing.
Picasso's Unknown Masterpiece - Overview
It is a little known fact that the origin of Pablo Picasso's Guernica lies in a secretive drawing that was executed in 1934 and which re-surfaced in England in the 1970s.
This previously unknown work contains the widest range of themes of all known Picassos and has been signed, dated and fingerprinted by the artist. Yet since its discovery, the Picasso museums and the Picasso Administration under the direction of Claude Picasso have refused access to fingerprinted materials that could prove it genuine.
A number of well known scholars close to the Picasso Estate have also been brushing aside or denying the attribution when communicating with the media. Regardless of what they may say, the drawing's authenticity can be proven one way or the other, but this may never happen unless Claude Picasso and those under his influence, permit access to fingerprinted items in their control.
The 1934 Drawing - Picasso's Unknown Masterpiece
The Discovery of The 1934 Drawing In the 1970's, a London junk dealer was commissioned to clear the effects of a deceased Polish woman from a flat in Ealing. The property had recently been ransacked, but among the remaining possessions he found five ink drawings, along with a bag of loose rubies and a valuable diamond bracelet. He also discovered lots of theatrical memorabilia and concluded from this that the woman had once been a dancer or an actress in the theatre.
The junk dealer kept the drawings for a number of years, then in the 1980's, he sold them to a picture dealer who disposed of four of the drawings to persons unknown. From his description of the four drawings, it appears that they may have been side panels to the drawing discussed here.
In the spring of 1991, the picture dealer sold the last remaining drawing to another dealer who consulted a third party for an opinion. The third party examined the work and had the strong feeling that it might be by Picasso. The drawing was shown to Christie's, the next day, they concluded it was by, "a very close friend of Picasso."
Subsequent research shows beyond doubt that the drawing is, in fact, an important, previously unknown work by Picasso. Despite numerous inquiries, the identify of the deceased Polish woman remains a mystery.
The Fingerprint
A subsequent examination revealed the presence of a fingerprint which had been rolled into the ink at the time of the drawing's creation.
The fingerprint, according to the findings of British fingerprint expert, has at least 14 identifiable characteristics. This is considered to be more than enough to determine conclusive proof of identity in a court of law.
Fingerprinting works of art was a technique that Picasso knew about and sometimes employed.
In 1914, the celebrated French criminologist, Alphonse Bertillon, proposed that famous artists fingerprint their work to prevent the fraud. Bertillon's article appeared in Le Matin under the title 'Bertillonage, on ne trouquera plus les d'oeuvres d'art.' According to the article, a number of famous artists, including Rodin, were said to have ascribed to the system. A cutting of this very article later appeared in Juan Gris' painting, 'Figure Seated In A Cafe'.
At this time Gris and Picasso had been in close communication, therefore it would seem probable that Picasso learned about fingerprinting at this time.
Jean Gluck, a former secretary of Picasso, who had responsible for cataloguing the artist's work, claimed in 1994, that a number of Picasso drawings had been signed with a fingerprint. John Richardson however, has stated adamantly that Picasso never signed this way. Richardson, like other historians who enjoy a close relationship with the Picasso administration, dismisses the fingerprint as evidence altogether. The question remains, is it or is it not Picasso's fingerprint in the drawing ?
Hidden Signatures and Dates
Beside the hidden fingerprint in the drawing are the inscriptions 'Picasso 1934' and '12.5.34'. These are barely visible to the naked eye and were discovered by chance when photographing the drawing.
Michael Ansell, a respected British handwriting and document expert, formerly the deputy head of the document section at Scotland Yard, examined the drawing in 1993 and concluded a preliminary report by stating :
'...all the features capable of comparison to date are entirely consistent with those appearing in other drawings by Picasso as well as items which contain Picasso's normal handwriting.'
The signature in the 1934 drawing although rare in works of the 1930's, corresponds identically with Picasso's signature in works from around the turn of the century.
The drawing contains at least two other signatures encrypted in its composition. One of these, shown below, is a large geometric 'Picazzo' signature. Like the signature above, this also harks back to the turn of the century. It relates to a number of drawings from that period, such as, 'The Street Violinist" of 1897, signed "Picazzo" The signature also relates to Picasso's first exhibit at Els Quatre Ghats in 1900, where he was billed as Picazzo. 1934, The Biographical Background
Allied to Picasso's fascination for Balzac's short-story, The Unknown Masterpiece, was an intention to create a single work which brought together all his important themes.
Works by Picasso which contain a convergence of many themes usually only occurred at times of crisis. It is no coincidence that such works are now almost always regarded as the most important masterpieces. Picasso created his best work under stress.Although the year 1934 is barely documented in Picasso history, it was without doubt one of the most critical years for the artist, because it was the commencement of the worst period of his life.
Picasso was driven in his art by the need to unload himself of psychological concerns.
The sequence of works leading up to the 1934 drawing and following on from it, show that Picasso's principle concern at this time was the love triangle that existed between himself, his wife Olga and his mistress Marie-Thérèse Walter.
In the early months of 1934 Picasso invented horrific bullfight scenes analogous to the developments in his life.
The divorce unsettled Picasso enormously, threatening both his family life and property.
Another dimension to the crisis is that Marie-Thérèse appears to have undergone an abortion at or just prior to the time of the drawing.
Symbols relating to a tragic pregnancy are repeated throughout the drawing and also appear in other works going back as far as 1925. Which may indicate an earlier loss of a child with Picasso.
These terrifying visions of hatred and destruction and the artist's consequent feelings of crucifixion are key elements in the drawing.
The unparalleled convergence of themes describe a tragic and terrifying theatre of the mind in which Picasso represents the two women in his life as the two thieves at his own crucifixion.
The drawing is riddled with symbolism associated with the artist's personal life and his mystical interests and it also contains cryptic references to the rise of Hitler and the Third Reich.
Picasso had been greatly concerned about political developments in Europe. Another war with Germany seemed inevitable and as a result of this horrific realisation, powerful apocalyptic images which seem to have emerged from depths of hell, can be found hidden in the drawing.
View The Mystery of Picasso
ASSIGNMENT for the blog:
- What thoughts or insights do you have after reading more about Durer's Influence on Picasso? Is there anything you would interpret differently that has not been discussed by any of the authors?
- What do you think Picasso learned from Dürer? How did Picasso give meaning to his symbols?
- From the list of objects in the previous study, pick a couple of the things that could be your most important objects. Share on your blog post your ideas on how they can be symbols that communicate some meaning about you. Your objects/symbols can be simple like Picasso's or detailed like Dürer's.
Submit your posts and respond to one other peer's dialog by the due date. Read the postings and comments of at least three other classmates.
1. Durer impacted Picasso to transfer is psychological concerns into an artwork. With the usage of symbolism, Picasso was able to implement his items to let the viewer interpret his struggles in their own perspective. The small details that Durer utilized enlightened Picasso to transfer his artworks into one of the greatest works that depict both a strong narrative of his story and abstraction.
ReplyDelete2.Picasso was able to grasp the idea of symbolism in a better understanding and give story to each element. His symbols all encompassed his thematic purpose that gave life to each objects. Picasso was able to incorporate those elements that were involved in his theme to accentuate his hardships and narrative to give viewer a sense of purpose behind to his unknown piece.
3. Some of the objects that I used were the bible, artworks, iPhone, and college brochure. The bible represents me as a whole of who I am and where I grew up; a Christian background living for God. The artworks that I drew describe my passion and interest in what I want to become in life. The iPhone underlines how dependent I am with technology and the generation I live in. The college brochures present my ambition in life. It motivates me to see what I have to reach for in life.
I fully agree with you that Durer influenced Picasso in that he inspired Picasso to use symbolism to transform his psychological concerns into the artwork. Picasso's symbolism did allow the viewer to look into his struggles, however they would interpret these struggles in the way Picasso intended it to be, not based on their own assumptions. He portrayed his wife as a monster with a knife, therefore the viewer will view this wife as evil based on Picasso's interpretation of her.
DeleteDurer probably introduced Picasso to the idea of how symbols can be an effective method of conveying deeper meanings and inner thoughts. For example, Durer used his symbols and their positioning to convey the artist's inner feeling of melancholia. Likewise Picasso used his symbols (such as the actions of the figures in his paintings) to represent different aspects and problems in his life. I wouldn't interpret the meaning behind the actions of the figures or the symbolism in Picasso's 1934 drawing differently because it is backed up by sound historical evidence of what was going on in his life at that time. However, I do feel as if that fingerprint is his because his personal Secretary did claim that he signed some of his artwork like this. Yet people can't make assumptions that it isn't his fingerprint because they refuse to allow it to be tested in the first place. Picasso further learned from Durer how to convey his inner emotions into his artwork. He did this through symbolism as well. Picasso gave meaning to his symbols by developing them from events that had happened in his life. This makes the symbols more credible and effective in enhancing his artwork, allowing for the viewer to look into his life. The viewer sees his life from his perspective and can feel the rage he experienced. Objects of mine that can be used as symbols are my silver bracelet, my purple stuffed bear, and my headphones. My silver bracelet represents the amount of faith I put in my religion and its practices. The purple bear represents how I treasure the relationship with my family, and my headphones symbolize my love of music which in turn can describe my life.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you in that Picasso was heavily influenced by Durer's use of symbolism as we can find bountiful amount of symbols in Picasso's paintings. Picasso's symbolism shows his phychological state. His hideous depiction of his wife represents the anger and a hatred toward his own wife.
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ReplyDelete1. The Picasso’s symbolisms were heavily influenced by Durer. Picasso uses these to convey how he feels, or how thinks about the certain object. For example, depiction of his wife is full of hatred and is indeed hideous, which shows he how much he resent her. Then, his painting overall conveys distress and psychological stress that the artist was going through during the time of creating the painting.
ReplyDelete2. Picasso probably learned that artwork is more than a piece of art; it is something that artist can use to convey how he feels. Also, the employment of symbolisms was greatly influenced. He learned to attribute meanings to the objects in his paintings. These symbols as a whole create the mood of the piece.
3. My phone is very valuable to me as that is what I use to communicate with my friends as well as my family. Also, picture with my friends in Korea just shows my cultural background and how much I care about them.
I do agree with your statement about Picasso being heavily influenced by Durer. The evidence of portraying his wife "full of hatred [and] indeed hideous" supports the assertion and outlines Picasso's style. If he did learn that artwork holds more meaning than what it is, he certainly has achieved it. Your connection to your phone displays your connection with your background and much as the moving-forward age of this century. :)
DeleteDurer influenced Picasso on how to represent author’s ideas and feelings by using symbolism in his art work. For example, in Picasso’s drawing (the unknown masterpiece), he depicted his wife as a raging monster, which symbolized how much he hated her because she divorced with him. Also, Picasso learned the way that Durer used to indicate liberation or transcendence from melancholy by drawing circles on the corners. Picasso drew the painting in an unrealistic way (figures are twisting and elongating) by using color white and black, which made the painting somber and symbolized his feeling about his personal life.
ReplyDeleteMy textbooks are really important to me because I like study. My pillow is also important to me because it helps me to recover after I studied for a long time.
I like the way you told about the unknown masterpiece and how you said how much he hated her. I agree with u 100 percent about it. I also like how you answered the third question and also saying how Durer influenced Picasso.
Delete1)Durer influenced Picasso on how to represent author’s ideas and feelings by using symbolism in his art work. You can see he symbolized all of his artwork and depicted them into many aspects.
ReplyDelete2) Picasso learned a lot from Dürer of course, he was a great admirer of him. He took his artwork very serious and he had paintings of him. He used a lot of black and white in his paintings which symbolizes something. He understood more about symbolism from Durer.
3) Few of my objects are a trophies because it tells how much I love sports and how much dedication and hard work I give to it. Another one is my posters of cars because I love exotic cars and I would like to get one sometime of my own. Another object is my pillow because it shows how much I love to sleep and get comfy.
I totally agree your idea of how Durer influenced Picasso. However, I cannot agree on your opinion that Picasso understood more about symbolism from Durer because if we did not know the background information of Picasso's painting, we could not understand what he wanted to represent in his artwork.
DeleteI find it to be very ironic that Melancholia took away an artist's enthusiasm for their work since both Durer and Picasso chose to paint or draw in that particular humor in their artworks. I still have doubts on the intentions of Picasso's use of 34 since his circumstances seem more...well, circumstancial. I have also noticed that in Picasso's sketch, there is also a kind of 'light' that is drawn in a sort of one point perspective. Perhaps it is the hope of relieving melancholia?
ReplyDeleteI believe that Picasso started merging several elements in his paintings in order to create a greater meaning because of his inspiration from Durer. However, an important difference between the two artists is that Durer tried to address more universal artist issues, while Picasso painted scenes that were a representation of his own conficts and that of the environment around him. Symbols depend on the audience to interpret them, and Picasso let the themes of WWII help define the tone of his painting.
Orange juice provides ample vitamins, but only a few will be able to withstand its sourness without ample sugar added in. However, that is not the natural state of the orange. I, too, can be harsh, but it is better to take me at face value than it is to project biases onto me. Crates with books in them show my drive to repurpose things.
I like how you say both artists differed in priority. I had never before viewed their primary focuses in such a light. I also see how you decided to show how each artist diverted to his own style by the influences of his time. You made interesting points,and they are reinforced by the things that define you.
DeleteIt is interesting to note Durer's influence on Picasso because they had both experienced a strong set of emotions, whether it was melancholy or terror. When Picasso incorporated symbolism and some of the same iconography from Durer's Melancholia, I believe he felt compelled to convey his viewpoints and ideas. He may have realized that the hidden message behind objects is the secret weapon of creating emotion. I would analyze the style of the lines as compatible with the tone of the piece; they were crude, less-organized, more chaotic. Picasso learned to channel his emotions through art; thus, art became the epitome of the mind of an artist. Also, from Durer, symbolism took root in Picasso's works. Secret and subtle marks preserve the work's mysteriousness and also lead to finding a greater meaning. One of my objects, such as my mirror is more complex than simplistic. Yes, it's purpose is to view the impending, unknown appearance of a person. But to me, I look for what I am on the inside. For even if I stare at the mirror long enough, the external view is just the layer hiding the actual person. Moreover, it is my portal to self-reflect and realize that you must see beyond face-value to gain understanding. Bobby pins, seem insignificant because of their material worth. However, they symbolize all the tiny things part of my life that I slowly forget about, lose, or regret. Little things added up amount to more than they are perceived as. They also hold things together, similar to some parts of my life. Durer's and Picasso's symbolism has provided me insight that sentimental value can be entrenched in the most miniscule fragments of life.
ReplyDeleteI would concur with the fact that Picasso's lines seem to be more emotional and less mathematically logical than that of Durer's. However, I would say that this does not make Durer's piece any less than Picasso's. I think that Durer's realism was his own unique way of portraying symbols with the same intensity that Picasso had portrayed his.
DeletePicasso is often called the founder of the Cubist movement. As such, he was likely hard-pressed to attribute some sort of meaning to his pictures, lest they be subjected to often harsh public judgment. It seems probable, then, that Picasso attended an art exhibit in which one or more of Dürer's paintings was being shown to the general public. Seeing just how easily Dürer attached meanings to otherwise ordinary objects like Scotch tape provided a framework for Picasso to utilize in his later works. Notice how Picasso decided to bestow a meaning upon ordinary objects in a Düreresque fashion to transform them into symbols. I highly doubt Picasso could have presented his works in the same light if not for the influence of Dürer. As for me...my symbols would be my pictures of Chicago, my Bible, a book, and a pair of basketball shoes. Chicago is my "safe haven",my location of peace, so to speak, and my love for it can be conveyed vividly. My love for God can be illustrated in my Bible-I go few places without it. An ordinary book will ascribe itself to my academic prowess and reading/english, my best subjects. And my all-time favorite sport is basketball, so why not select my favorite pair of hoop shoes to magnify my claim?
ReplyDeleteDurer influenced Picasso to put deep thoughts and symbolism into his artwork to make the meanings deeper. Picasso was able to use the symbolism to draw the viewers eyes to the object and think about it. The fine detailing Durer used encouraged Picasso to do it. Picasso was able also to take the ideas and make a better understanding of them. For example the symbolism he drew would have more meaning and understanding through out his art career. The objects I used that would symbolize me were my music, sketchbook, and my books. My music is a distraction that allows me to think of something else that is on my mind. Then when I draw in my sketchbook it allows my stress to go away and helps me slow down when everything is going to fast around me. My books allow me to leave and focus on something else because as a child I hated reading and then I grew into when I really had nothing else to do.
ReplyDeleteI feel that Picasso’s work clearly reveals influences from Durer. The composition is similar and it makes their works more related now that I learn this. Picasso seems to have gone more far than Durer because of his study on Durer. He has mastered what Durer had done in symbolism and created his own. I feel that Picasso’s artwork are therefore masterpieces and are world famous because of influences from Durer. The object I would choose for my symbolism would be a pile of paper. I would have it lying around in the background of each of my pieces to represent stress and a chaotic state of mind. This would especially represent me now for I am stressed because of college. Also, I would put in a mysterious, scary, blue light that seems unexpected in the whole piece. This would represent my electronics and phone that distracts me all the time.
ReplyDeleteDurer and Picasso have a lot in common in their artworks. They both use symbolism to convey what they think about certain subjects. They also use the composition as a media for conveying their thoughts and hinting their hidden messages. The difference is that Picasso's symbolism is a little more extreme. his symbolism gets so extreme that even a fingerprint on his work of art is conveying a message. The object I would use to symbolize me would be any plant because I'm quiet and mind my one business. i don't really do much that effects others.
ReplyDeletePreviously, I had had no idea that Picasso was influenced by Durer. To be honest, I have never even heard of Durer before. After reading more about Durer’s influence on Picasso, I gained a lot more respect for Durer, not only for his unique style but his legacy and impact on other artists as well. It also made me think about how art is truly a language of communication in which artists and viewers from different times can communicate with each other, sharing techniques and also adding new elements. The elements and iconography in Picasso’s works oftentimes draw many parallels to those in Durer’s work. I believe that Picasso learned, from Durer, how to utilize symbolism to piece together a narrative that will be told by the artwork. Picasso’s work, like Durer’s, possesses many seemingly simple objects with complex symbolic meanings. As a result, the works of both artists are able to tell a story. Picasso gave meaning to his symbols by tying them together under an umbrella of common theme(s). These themes held underlying influence from Picasso’s own life as well as the political circumstances at his time. The symbols each carried their own theme, and Picasso placed the symbols together so that their themes converged; consequently, the collection of themes would help develop symbolic meaning. Some of the objects that could be symbols for me would be the eraser, pictures of my family, and the colorful pens. These symbols would be relatively simple, more like Picasso. The eraser would be embedded to symbolize the mistakes I make, but also the forgiving nature of most of them—change could be made. The family photos would represent my love for my family and how they are my priority and surround my life. The colorful pens, in my imagination, would be scattered all over, symbolizing my spontaneity and how my moods change according to the situations that surround me.
ReplyDeleteI also did not know Picasso was influenced by Durer. I think it is interesting that symbols represent Durer's life as well as Picasso's life and the time period. I agree that both artists used symbols to emphasize a meaning or theme. I like your personal symbols are the simplicity of the objects, but their special meaning to you. The composition of the objects is important, as you mentioned.
DeleteIt is fascinating that Picasso, an widely known artist centuries after Durer’s time, was influenced by Durer. The connections between the works of both artists are interesting and a relationship can be seen. I do not understand why the artist of the 1934 painting is ambiguous. If the signature and fingerprint on the painting match those of Picasso’s, why do people still have doubts of his workmanship. Maybe it is because the finding of the painting is mysterious and the identity of the woman who was in possession of it is unknown.
ReplyDeletePicasso was fond of signatures and numbers are learned to hide these things in his painting from Durer. Durer hid the date in the magic square and Picasso hid it in the corner of his work. Also, the general idea of the drawing, melancholia or depression related to art, is the same in both works. The colors are similar and the fact that Picasso used symbols, as Durer did is significant. Picasso gave meaning to his symbols by making the painting fluid and somewhat chaotic. All objects are combined or interwoven, as are their meanings. This makes the painting almost like a puzzle. Overall, Durer’s symbols are more complex, but Picasso’s are meaningful as well.
The objects that are most important to me are my cross country shoes and my journal. My shoes symbolize the hard work and persistence I put into my training. I am competitive and always give my best effort. They also represent perseverance and remind me to never give up. The journal symbolizes my introverted nature because it represents time I spend thinking about myself. Also, I like to record events and stay organized using a journal.
I also found it fascinating that Picasso was influenced by someone who lived centuries beforehand. I think it's very interesting that people who come from different backgrounds and time periods can have an impact so long after they've lived their life. I think that is why art is so important to people because no matter the time period, people feel the same emotions and experience similar things and it is when we find that common ground that we truly appreciate a piece of art.
DeleteI think that Picasso was fascinated by Durer and that led to him wanting to incorporate elements of Durer's work into his own as a method of honoring Durer. Before I took this class, I had only know of Picasso's existence and now that I know of someone who influenced him, I realize how talkative a piece of art can be. I think that Picasso learned the importance of symbolism to tell what the work is about. Picasso gave meaning to his symbols by basing them off of what he was going through in his life. For me, my symbols would include my bookcase which represents my passion for reading and my love of literature, a cross which represents my faith and what it has taught me throughout the years, and photos of my friends which represent my love for my friends and how close we all are.
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed your analysis. I also find it interesting the different ways their artists can influence other artists. It's also interesting to see that despite this constant external flounces that artists are still able to develop their own styles but the influences are all same. This really says a lot about what we decide to produce art on and what it says about us as a species who is able to use art to convey our emotional state and perspectives but are also able to incorporate the emotional state and perspectives of others. Lastly, I agree with your statement of the ability to paintings to talk. It always surprises me that something as symbol as a basic drawing can tell so much about an person. It's as powerful, if not more so, than the ability of words to convey ideas but I personally believe art does this in a more efficiency and direct manner that ultimately enables an individual to better understand the artists then if those same ideas and emotions were being conveyed through words
Deleteo I was intrigued at the idea that artists could draw such a great deal of influence from other artists but at the same time create such a unique style. This is a very fascinating idea to me since I never would have thought that Picasso and Durer was stylistically created but further inquiry into that matter has sparked my interest and surprised me greatly. I would not have interpreted the symbolism in Picasso's work as being an indication of his emotional state. Picasso's only artistic shift was his Blue Period and Rose Period but the work discussed did not fit into those two categories. As such, I did not initially see the connections between the work and Durer and the fact that Picasso embeds his emotions into the symbols of the work discussed despite it not being of a specific period.
ReplyDeleteo The main thing that Picasso was able to learn from Durer was where and how to subliminally implant symbols onto the conscious of the viewer. Additionally, Picasso learned about how to create a story, not just a single moment of time, by incorporating symbols together and having them supplement each other. Both of these techniques were added to the Picasso cannon since Durer first implemented them and Picasso learned from Durer. Picasso was able to give meaning to his symbols through motion and color. Unlike Durer's symbols, Picassos symbols and figures are in motion and the viewers eye follows this motion of the figures. Additionally, Picasso incorporates lots of color and hues into his work. Both of these work together by making the piece seem more realistic, giving the viewer a sense that he/she is present at that piece, and enabling the viewer to understand the emotions of the artist at that time. The motion and color of the symbols make them seem more real and emotion able and thus a dapper connection is drawn between the viewer and the artist.
o My most important symbols would be by textbooks, my family photos, and my book shelf as all of these symbols communicate considerable amounts of information about me. The textbooks shows my desires to become an enlightened individual and the effort I am willing to put into improving myself. Through it, a viewer would understand my perspective towards work and the kind of worker I am. Additionally, the family photos would show the love I have for my family and the strong bond I have with them. It would characterize me as an emotional and connectable individual to be around. Lastly, the bookshelf would show my desire to gain as much knowledge as possible and my source of entertainment. It would enable the viewer to understand the way I view the world and the kinds of things that I place value in.
I enjoyed reading your very thorough and insightful analysis. I agree with you that its quite fascinating to consider all the influences that assimilate to create an artistic masterpiece. The fact you mentioned about Picasso's artistic shift, the Blue Period and Rose Period, was new knowledge for me. Also, your symbols are very thoughtful and important. Education really is the key to success.
DeleteAfter reading about Durer’s influence on Picasso, I think it’s ironic how history depicted them. Picasso belongs to a line of well-known, admired artists including Michelangelo and Da Vinci. Until recently, I had no knowledge of Durer at all. It makes me wonder what factors caused Picasso to reach more fame then Durer as both individuals were gifted and passionate. In terms of interpretation, I agree with the authors that both these men were very talented and created intricate pieces.
ReplyDeletePicasso learned from Durer how to incorporate symbolism in an arcane manner. For example, both artists embedded the date of their creations into their artwork and concealed the squaring of a circle. Picasso gave meaning to his symbols by connecting them back to the common theme of redemption from melancholy. Similar iconography was another element Picasso mimicked from Durer.
In my life, the calendar is symbolic of order. It communicates my love of organization and structure. Especially when life gets hectic, it helps me to prioritize and not get lost in trivial matters. The Bible, my most important symbol, is representative of timeless faith. It represents the call encompassing nature of faith that remains consistent despite changing circumstances; it is a source of hope and exemplifies my optimistic nature. The tennis racket is symbolic of my commitment to fitness. Sports require the kind of perseverance that I attempt to maintain in life. The racket represents hard work and sportsmanship.
I full agree with you! I really had no idea who Durer was until this assignment! It seems like Picasso kind of gets all the "credit," if you will, even if he may not mean to take all of it. I also like the idea you proposed about how Picasso reached more fame than Durer...does it have to do a little with luck since both are equally talented? Maybe Picasso was better-received by society because of the certain circumstances at the time. The iconography that both are masters at is simply amazing as well. Both utilize large amounts of symbolism to enhance their works and the effect is unparalleled.
DeleteI really enjoyed reading your post. I think Picasso reached more fame than Durer because Durer's work was too radical for his time. However, after a few hundred, when Picasso incorporated many of Durer's ideas into his own paintings, people were much more receptive. Thus, I guess in a way it was unfortunate for Durer that his art didn't receive as much recognition as it should have. However, in a way Picasso carries on Durer's legacy. I also agree with you that Picasso learned a great deal from Durer and learned how to incorporate symbolism into his paintings. Lastly, I really like your two symbols of The Bible and tennis racket and feel they convey a lot of meaning.
DeleteI was fascinated by the amount of influence that Durer had on Picasso. While these painters lived several hundred years apart, much of Durer’s style can still be seen in Picasso’s work. Both paintings at first seem chaotic, but actually convey a lot of balance. For example, both paintings contain some type of square; Durer’s has a magic square while Picasso’s is painted on a square canvas. By incorporating the square, bother Durer and Picasso are able to covey symmetry, balance, and order in their paintings.
ReplyDeleteI think Picasso learned from Durer how to subtly incorporate symbols in his artwork that convey great meaning. For example, both of their paintings incorporate hidden signatures and dates. Inscribed in Picasso’s painting is the year 1934, which is the year the painting was made. While, Durer was able to include his date, 1514, in his magic square. As well, I think Durer taught Picasso how to incorporate emotion into his paintings, which helped give meaning to his symbols. For example, Picasso depicts his wife as a raging monster, which helps to indicate the stress and tragedy in his life.
The two objects that are most important to me are my phone and pencil. My phone communicates meaning to me as it helps me stay connected with the world no matter where I am. My pencil is also important to me as it is what I use to express my thoughts and ideas. It allows me to write down my thoughts so they stay with me forever.
I agree with your opinions on how Durer impacted Picasso and his artwork. I find it really interesting that you draw similarities between Durer's work and Picasso's work. Also, the way you analyze how the two artists' use of symbols is very insightful. Your two symbols are also very relevant and seem to be like Picasso's symbols: meaningful, but simple.
DeleteDurer had an extremely strong influence on Picasso. Picasso utilizes objects and symbols to convey his emotions and ideas; it gives us insight into his mind. Several elements exhibit this. The wife seems almost malicious as she expresses her strong dislike. It makes her quite horrid and unpleasant to look at. This conveys that Picasso may not be very fond of her, and may rather hate her quite a bit. The way picasso composes his work gives it a larger-than-life feel; it is not a mere artwork, but rather a means of expressing his feelings and emotions. The symbolism within Picasso's work is similar to Durer's intense exhibition of unique symbols that work together to give greater meaning to the work, though they are more simple. My family portraits symbolize my love for and attachment to my family. My dance bells show my commitment to Kuchipudi (Indian Classical Dance) for the past nine years.
ReplyDeleteI had no idea picasso was influence by him so much. I had no idea who durur was until recently.
ReplyDeletePicasso learn to add symbolism in a deep and sophisticated way.
I would say a bible is a big symbol of myself. I'd like to say it represents who I am, but it would more accurately represent the battle of morality that goes on inside my head. Also, I like music, all types.
I approached very simple feature from Picasso's unknown masterpiece comparing with Durer's, the color. For my first look for both artists' pieces, I noticed the color tone for both were black&white contrast. Even though Picasso's piece is not a perfect black&white color, I see the similar mood from Durer's piece that conveys gloomy, sadness, or seriousness. I didn't quite learned about the facial expression from the articles above; I can understand the style of Picasso's piece is not really focused on facial expression for the figures. All the life story of Picasso can tell the meanings of the masterpiece; that fascinates me to look over his work.
ReplyDeleteFingerprints and the signatures are important to me as I say from Picasso's masterpiece. When I produce my own piece of Art, I like to inscribe my signature or my fingerprint to make it more unique.
I was not previously aware of Picasso's influences, in particular Durer, so it surprises me that he had such an impact on a modern painter. I suppose I don't know too much about Picasso so any underlying meanings in this drawing are unfamiliar to me, and I wasn't even subject to the fact that Picasso had meanings in his paintings! Haha, I find it very interesting though that he does interpret meanings in his work. I think that Picasso learned to think outside of the box from Durer, different ideas like Alchemy and imagination. By applying those meanings influenced by Durer in a modern way, Picasso brings a different point of view to the viewers. My most important objects would probably be the art portfolio because it is a part of my past and documents my own works which have developed through the years. Another object would be the caution tape and road reflector which I found on a walk. Like I said in the previous post, I like to collect mementos or things I find because I can attach those to the memory of finding it. The tape and reflector could hold other meanings too, such as danger, an interruption of reality.
ReplyDeleteI find it admirable that you like to collect things that you encounter on walks as pieces of memory road.
DeleteI think that it is interesting, although not surprising, that Picasso found an influence in Durer. Durer's art was inspiring in general, and considering the time from which he came, it was downright mind blowing. He was a genius. Picasso, living closer to Durer's time than we did, although not by that much, found an inspiration in this genius and took his own play on it. Perhaps this ability to transfer another great work of art into the inner workings of one's own mind, infusing it with your own symbolism at the same time, is the greatest aspect of skill that one can possess. The only thing that I still have questions over that is not addressed during the readings is the significance of the number 34 in the first place. It is used heavily in Melancholia, and then again when Picasso painted his interpretation in 1934. What is the meaning behind it?
ReplyDeleteWhat do you think Picasso learned from Dürer? How did Picasso give meaning to his symbols?
I think that one important aspect that Picasso learned from Durer was his ability to use symbols in order to convey a deeper message that might not be as apparent at face value. Perhaps one looking at Melancholia for the first time, especially without a background in the history of the symbols used in such, would not realize the true character of the piece, and so too would the first time viewer of this work by Picasso not quite realize everything it stood for; the story of his wife and mistress, the homage it paid to Melancholia itself, and indeed, the feelings that Picasso poured into it. Picasso gave his symbols meaning by seamlessly weaving them into the narrative of his pieces, telling a story with simple creations. He took something that might not be entirely out of the ordinary, such as the knife held by his wife, and placed them in a context, both in the painting and in his life, that made them infused with so much more depth, if only one knew enough about Picasso himself and the history of the painting to look for it. Even the fact that the painting he pays homage to is Melancholia is symbolic, in a way, standing for his own terrifying struggle with depression that he is getting out, symbolically, in this work.
My most important objects from the list would have to be the globe and the medal, the globe because it is my goal, and to understand a person's goal is to understand a person's life, their motivation, and their character. I want nothing more than I want the ability to travel the world, to see things that I have never experienced, and on a certain level, I want to escape the monotony of the life I am currently living. On the other side, the medal portrays an aspect of my character that is more immediate, and possibly less admirable. It characterizes my desire to compete and to win, to come out on top. This drives my actions in another way; while wanting to travel drives me to look into a good education, a high paying job, and other such things that are preached to us since the second we step foot in school, the desire to not only succeed but also succeed in a way that is somehow better than my peers drives me to act selfishly. Thus, these two pieces define my life, and in an artwork depicting it, they would need to be present to let the work truly define me.
I agree that one of the most important aspects that Picasso learned from Durer was the ability to use symbols to convey a deeper message. Moreover, I additionally agree that Picasso and Durer did a fabulous job subtly utilizing certain symbols to communicate to the audience.
DeletePicasso’s works can easily be compared to that of Durer’s when looking at symbolism and meaning. Durer’s inclusion of the magic square as a cure to melancholiness, and his incorporation of certain, significant numbers in Melancholia, introduces certain concepts that artists like Picasso took advantage of. For example, Picasso’s 1934 drawing contains multiple aspects that were also seen in Durer’s Melancholia, such as a concealed squaring of a circle, a dog, a ladder, two angels, the tools of the artist’s trade (paints and a brush in Picasso’s and woodworking tools in Durer’s), and engravings. Moreover, Picasso’s 1934 drawing also holds a deeper meaning. The work was created to serve as an outlet for Picasso’s psychological distress during “the worst year of his life.” 1934 depicts Picasso’s love triangle between his wife and his mistress, and further details the anxiety Picasso feels about the situation through the given symbols. Conclusively, Picasso was able to reflect on these events through the utilization of symbols seen in Durer’s work.
ReplyDeleteThe most significant items to me from the list on the previous blog post, are my Duran Duran records (Rio, Arena and Notorious). Each record contains songs that are symbolic to me in many ways. More specifically, each one evokes a certain memory, or the hopes of something happening in the future. Either way, I feel like the majority of Duran Duran’s greatest hits really symbolize certain aspects of my life, and help me really reflect on what I want in the future.
I think we are on the same page in terms of understanding Durer's impact on Picasso and the personal significance of the many symbols Picasso incorporated into his 1934. Additionally, although I listen to music purely for enjoying it, I think your personal connections to individual records is fascinating and definitely allows the music to be more memorable as well as symbolic.
DeleteI think it's incredibly interesting to see how although visually, Picasso's 1934 looks vastly different from Durer's Melencolia, upon a closer inspection, they do indeed share many similarities. The squaring of a circle is the most vaguely carried over similarity of all, dropped into 1934 by Picasso seamlessly. There's nothing that I would outright debate against in terms of different interpretations, although the inclusion of his Picasso's signature through jumbled, rigid shapes seems a bit of a stretch, but nonetheless possible.
ReplyDeleteThe greatest thing Picasso probably learned from Durer was creativity in using many instances of subtle symbolism that produce a bigger story or theme when placed together. Firstly, Picasso's inclusion of painter's tools allows us to associate the subject of the painting with the painter himself. Next, the repeated motif of the year 1934 highlights that date's importance in his life and the painting. Through both of these, we can finally infer a deeper meaning in the figures depicted, such as associating the knife-wielding woman with his wife, whose divorce left him tormented and depressed.
The most important objects for me would be my headphones and my Korean fan. My headphones are huge symbols of my personality in depicting my will to have fun every once and a while and my understanding not to overstress myself. It serves as a respite from obstacles in my life. Additionally, my Korean fan characterizes who I am, an aspect of myself important in shaping my perspectives on the world and many other things in my life, including my likes and my relationships.
I agree with you on the part that Picasso was influenced by the subtle symbolism, as it is not apparent to someone who is casually looking at it.
DeletePicasso, was indeed influenced by the subtle symbolism which was something the works of genuine and noble artists possessed , the need for deeper level thinking.
DeleteArtists throughout time have had a ripple effect in terms of style on other artist. This is especially true with Durer's influence on Picasso. Upon casual inspection, one would think that the art of Picasso and Durer are different in every instance; but upon closer analysis, one is able to see that they are similar. I wouldn't disagree with any of the interpretation the author provided, as it does cover the theme of symbolism in the artwork, but i would like a deeper analysis into the number 34, as it probably isn't mere coincident that the number was placed there and must have a deeper meaning to it.
ReplyDeleteThe biggest thing that Picasso learned from Durer was the use of symbolism to convey a deeper meaning. Like Durer, Picasso used symbolism to depict almost horror like scenes, ones with sadness and melancholy. This was seen through his inclusion of iconography of 1934. At first thought, this may seem like nothing; but use of this 1934 allowed him to convey something that happened in his life. Through closer research, one can see that 1934 was the year when his wife had divorced him due to knowing of Picasso's affair and the abortion of his new wife's baby.
One important object to me is my binder, because it symbolizes my schoolwork, which is what i do for most of the day and especially during the weekday but also symbolizes my organization (Kappa 4Head). Another important object to me is my computer. Because i love technology and a big hobby of mien is searching the web, watching youtube and twitch, this further emphasizes the things i like to do.
I love how you compare twitch chat's symbolism to picasso's symbolism in that they both share a common concept:using simple objects to display a bigger meaning. I think that if you understand the meanings behind twitch chat it'll give you a boost in understanding picasso's symbolism in his art.
DeleteJust like how you think it is mere coincidence that the number 34 was placed there, I to think that certain symbols that Picasso placed may have been purely through coincidence and would like to see more analysis and interpretation on this idea. Also I liked how you also made use of "(Kappa 4Head)" as one of byproduct of your interest in computer, SeemsGood!
DeleteUpon reading about the similarities between Durer and Picasso, I find that in a way it is apparent, and maybe even expected, that Picasso would be influenced by the artistic genius, Durer. Although their style is quite drastically different, upon closer inspection the similarity that is cast between these two are staggering and so covertly disguised. Also it is believed that Picasso gained significant inspiration from one of Durer's signature drawing, Melancholia. This may be so due to the fact that 1934 was one of the hardest year for Picasso, as he said it was the "worst period of his life." This hardship allowed Picasso to connect to the main theme of Melancholia which is depression and melancholy, as stated in the title of the drawing. Also it is shown that Picasso signed the year 1934 on one of his drawings and also included a drawing of a women yielding a knife. These two symbolizes the difficult time that Picasso had during 1934 which was accentuated due to surrounding circumstances such as his wife discovering Picasso's affair leading to divorce; threatening not just his business, but also his personal life. However although it is commonly believed that Picasso gained influences, and it may be due to my lack of knowledge, however I still believe that the knife yielding women and the signed 1934 could have just been a coincidence that had no correlation to Durer's influence, since to me, Picasso paintings are too abstract and ambiguous to show the definite truth. Out of all the apparent influences Picasso gained from Durer, the most important of them all is learning how to embed symbolism throughout his drawing without making it painfully obvious, in fact Picasso, like Durer, masterfully hides his symbols throughout his work. This is shown in multiple drawing of his wife showing her as pregnant and later on a "monster" yielding a knife, which coincides with his 1934 date making it seem more obvious the connections of the tragic incidents throughout his life.
ReplyDeleteTo me the most important ideas that represent me from my previous blog post is my headphones and my computer. My headphones represent not just my interest in music, but several different things. First since I have a wide variety of music genre I'm interested in (Kpop, Jpop/Rock, Rap, etc) this allows me to represent myself and my mood at different times, and most importantly shows my cultural heritage hence my interest in Kpop music. Lastly the computer symbolizes my interest in technology and the countless hours I spend watching youtube, using it to do homework, and lastly creates a stronger bond between my friends and I as we create inside jokes through the content we watch on Twitch (Kappa).
Could you say that listening to international music broadens your ability to understand cultural differences between say Korea and Japan? Obviously they have different cultural hierarchical systems, but could your propensity to listen to both be indicative of a certain similarity of either iconography (not in a religious context) or materialistic value? Listening to different kinds of music is a lot like analyzing different works of artistry and, in the same way, they can provide influence in areas separate from just artistry, so perhaps this could demonstrate your willingness to interpret different types of cultures.
DeleteI find it interesting on how Picasso’s art looks different from Durer's art to the naked eye but, upon inspection of each, we begin to notice that the paintings do share similarities rather than only differences. Personally, there is really nothing that I disagree with when it comes to different interpretations because of how well each follows the thematic subject of symbolizing something.
ReplyDeleteI think that one of the more important things that Picasso learned from Durer was of his ability to use symbolism to convey a deeper message. The terrifying visions of hatred,destruction, and horror were defined in picasso’s art by the use of symbolism. When we look at the Picasso’s 1934, it can casually be seen as just another painting of his depicting something horrid that we don’t know about but when someone looks closer at the painting it actually has a meaning in that it was the year his wife left him. That big message could be seen in the simple input of “1934” and “12.5.34” which defined picasso’s nature of simple objects amounting to a bigger meaning.
The two most important things to me would be Quran and Computer. My Quran is important in that it defines what I believe in religiously and defines who I am culturally Anele. My computer is important in that it shows my love for technology and is something I use daily.
You stated that you don't disagree with the interpretation of Durer's influence on Picasso, however do you believe that some of Picasso's symbols such as the date 1934 could have been out of pure coincidence and not in any relation to Durer? Also I like how you stated that the simple objects Picasso used amounted into a bigger and deeper meaning. Nice Job.
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DeleteAfter reading on how Picasso was influenced by Dürer, I believe that both artists underwent stress and the result of this was different in both of their arts. For Dürer, he depicted a picture of melancholy, which underscored the stress he was facing in portraying a picture of perfection. For Picasso, he showed his stress by depicting abstract forms.
ReplyDeletePicasso learned how to use hidden symbolism to convey the date and signature, contrary to standards of both times.
My stuffed animals show how naive I am and my trees show how I can endure. These things really represent me.
After discovering Durer's influence upon Picasso, there is an added element of appreciation for the deeper meaning behind Durer's painting. Instead of it being merely a social commentary of the events of the renaissance, it instead delves deeper into the individualistic mindset of the artist. There are conflicting ideals and purposes for their art that represent the convergent forces that come along with the preconceived notion that one should be a perfect prodigy. This is driven further by the term, "Melancholia," which demonstrates the artist's equivalence of writer's block mixed with an indescribable depression that prevents creativity. Many times, under this influence, artist's can persevere and create beautiful works of art that demonstrate will. Picasso and Durer are representative of this phenomena entirely. I don't think I could provide much insight besides the fact that perhaps, Picasso didn't want much recognition for his aforementioned work of art, mainly because of the obscurity of it's subject matter and unfinished style. He left subtle hints but they were only easily interpreted because Picasso became incredibly popular, and not the other way around. This is a powerful statement, if it's true, and it demonstrates the deeper meaning behind the term Melancholia. The biggest stylistic element that Picasso took from Durer, I believe, is the importance of symbolism and the technique used to hide them in plain sight. While Picasso was more impressionistic, and Durer was more straightforward with organic realistic elements, there were definitive similarities that are indicative of influence; The use of numerical symbolism especially. In terms of meaning, Picasso gave his symbols an intrinsic definition that can't be interpreted fully at face value. To be able to dissect the meaning of Picasso's incredibly unrealistic and impressionistic works, one must look towards base definitions of certain objects within the painting of work of art. This differs from Durer's interpretation of meaning because extrapolating from his works only came from the organic and easily distinguishable individuals in his works. I believe that my saxophone could easily be distinguishable as a simple symbol for me. It's representative of hard work and musical appreciation, and besides that, it doesn't have much of an ambiguous meaning.
ReplyDeleteI also believe that the most important thing that Picasso took from Durer is the use of symbolism and is the thing that makes the two artists so remarkable and memorable in art history.
DeleteAfter learning about the influence that Durer had on Picasso I realized that through the use of symbolism the two artists mastered conveying their emotions in real life into the artwork itself. This way the artwork has depth and it captures the audience wholeheartedly and they must look extremely closely to completely understand everything about the piece. I think that the technique that Picasso adopted from Durer is the use of symbolism especially in plain sight and objects that can be seen clearly, but are subtle and overlooked nonetheless. Through the symbolism Picasso can convey his personal emotions, a method he probably adopted from Durer. I think my headphones are the most important symbol from my room. I never forget my headphones and I bring them with me everyday. I listen to music all throughout the day and I bond through it with my friends. All in all music is one of the things I am most passionate about.
ReplyDelete1.)I think Picasso depicts his wife as a double edged sword because he shows her smiling while holding a sword which means she could have been nice to him at time and extremely unbearable at other times.
ReplyDelete2.)I think Picasso learnt how to use symbols to effectively convey messages from Durer’s paintings were well relatable in his time and Picasso was able to use symbols to ,make his work the same.
3.)I would say my bible represents me the most, not all because of my spirituality but because of all the wisdom bundled in the book and my constant desire to be wise and knowledgeable. Also, another object that would represent me well would be a watch, because it takes lots of handiwork and craftsmanship to make it work. Also, all those gears and precision convey a sense of sophistication, a sense other have felt for hundreds of year.
I agree that one of the most important thing that Picasso learned form Durer was how to use symbolism in regular objects effectively. He also learned how to hide information such as dates in his artwork. Picasso was able to effectively use symbols and give his artwork depth and a similar meaning to that of Durer. I believe that Durer greatly influenced Picasso.
DeleteI never thought about the influence that Durer's Melancholia could have had on Picasso's masterpieces. When I first looked at both the artworks side by side, I really did not see any similarities between them. However, after reading about the meanings hidden in both the artworks, I now see how Durer influenced Picasso. I would not have interpreted the Picasso drawing of being a magical square itself. It does not look like a magical square to be but its symbolism is very similar to the magical square in Durer's Melancholia. I believe Picasso learned how to cleverly use regular objects as symbols to communicate with the viewer. They both used many objects and mathematical tricks to show many information such as the date of production of the both artworks. Picasso followed Durer's use of circles in the corners and other objects in order to give him painting a similar yet different meaning of that of Durer.
ReplyDeleteOne of the most important objects in my room would be my Taekwondo belts. The belts start from a white belt and go till a black belt. They represent the tenets of Taekwondo and show my accomplishment. They define me as a martial artist, which is a big part of my life. I went from a not-know anything white belt to an national award winning Black belt. I believe it shows my hard work and it motivates me to further in life.