Margarete, 1981 (290 Kb) Oil and straw on canvas, 28 Anselm Kiefer

The painting presents a densely layered composition dominated by a muted palette of grey and ochre tones. A textured background, achieved through visible brushstrokes and what appears to be straw embedded within the oil paint, establishes a sense of depth and materiality. The surface is not smooth; it possesses an almost tactile quality that invites closer inspection.
Here we see a proliferation of upright forms emerging from the lower portion of the canvas. These are constructed primarily from straw, which has been manipulated into curving, arching shapes reminiscent of stylized plant life or perhaps skeletal remains. They lack precise definition, their edges blurred and softened by the surrounding paint. The straw elements vary in color, ranging from a pale yellow to a deep brown, creating visual interest within the overall monochromatic scheme.
The upper portion of the canvas is characterized by a more diffuse application of grey paint, punctuated by sporadic white highlights that suggest light filtering through foliage or cloud cover. These lighter areas offer a contrast to the darker, denser forms below and contribute to an atmospheric quality. The signature Margarete is inscribed in dark lettering across the central area, seemingly integrated into the composition rather than presented as a separate element.
The subtexts within this work are complex and open to interpretation. The use of straw, a readily available and often discarded material, suggests themes of fragility, impermanence, and perhaps even decay. The upright forms, while vaguely organic in appearance, lack vitality; they appear burdened or constrained by their surroundings. The muted color scheme reinforces a sense of melancholy or introspection.
The inscription Margarete introduces an element of personal significance, potentially referencing a specific individual or concept that holds emotional weight for the artist. However, without further context, its precise meaning remains ambiguous. It could represent a lost love, a cherished memory, or even a symbolic representation of femininity itself. The overall effect is one of quiet contemplation and understated emotion, inviting viewers to project their own interpretations onto the work’s enigmatic imagery.