Hammamet with mosque, 1914, Collection Heinz Bergguen, Paul Klee (1879-1940)

The composition presents a view dominated by architectural forms set against a landscape rendered in broad, expressive brushstrokes. A prominent structure, seemingly a mosque given its distinctive minaret, rises centrally within the frame. Its blue and white coloration contrasts with the surrounding earth tones of ochre, pink, and brown that define the terrain. The building appears to be situated atop an elevated plateau or cliff face, which is delineated by a sharp, angular line.
Below this central element, a cluster of vegetation – indicated by patches of green and yellow – is visible, suggesting a cultivated area or garden. To the right, another architectural form, possibly a tower or fortified structure, emerges from the landscape, echoing the verticality of the minaret but in a warmer terracotta hue.
The sky is suggested through washes of white and grey, creating an impression of diffused light rather than clear definition. The overall effect is one of simplification and abstraction; details are minimized, and forms are reduced to their essential shapes and colors. A sense of immediacy pervades the work, as if captured in a fleeting moment.
The color palette contributes significantly to the painting’s mood. The juxtaposition of cool blues and warm reds creates visual tension while also evoking a feeling of vibrancy. The use of flat planes of color, rather than modeling or shading, flattens the perspective and emphasizes the decorative qualities of the composition.
Subtly, theres an interplay between the man-made structures and the natural environment. While the buildings are clearly defined, they seem to grow organically from the landscape, blurring the boundaries between constructed space and the surrounding terrain. This suggests a harmonious relationship between culture and nature, or perhaps a commentary on how human intervention shapes and is shaped by its surroundings. The absence of figures invites contemplation about the place itself, rather than focusing on human activity within it.