Painting on glass with the sun (Little joys) Vasily Kandinsky (1866-1944)

The composition presents a dreamlike landscape rendered on glass, characterized by bold outlines and a flattened perspective. A prominent, undulating hill dominates the foreground, its surface delineated with thick, black lines that suggest both solidity and fluidity. The color palette is restrained yet expressive; muted blues, greens, and yellows are punctuated by areas of ochre and red, creating a sense of warmth against the cooler tones.
Perched atop the hill sits a structure resembling a castle or fortified town. Its towers rise sharply against a pale sky, suggesting aspiration and perhaps a longing for security or refuge. The architectural details are simplified, almost schematic, contributing to the overall feeling of unreality.
Several figures populate the scene. One appears to be riding a lion, while another is depicted in mid-leap, seemingly descending from the hill towards the viewer. These figures possess an exaggerated quality, their forms elongated and stylized, evoking a sense of playful energy or even whimsical flight. A smaller figure, positioned near the bottom right corner, seems to point upwards, potentially directing attention toward the castle or acting as a narrative guide.
The frame itself is integral to the work’s impact. Its yellow border, marked with visible brushstrokes and signs of wear, adds a layer of texture and visual interest, further emphasizing the paintings handmade quality. The glass surface introduces an element of transparency and reflection, subtly altering how light interacts with the image and contributing to its ethereal atmosphere.
Subtly embedded within this fantastical scene are hints of narrative tension or yearning. The figures’ actions – the lion ride, the leap, the pointing gesture – suggest a story unfolding, though its precise meaning remains elusive. The castle, while seemingly idyllic, is isolated on the hilltop, perhaps symbolizing an unattainable ideal or a place of both promise and distance. Overall, the work conveys a sense of childlike wonder combined with a quiet melancholy, inviting contemplation about themes of aspiration, journey, and the fleeting nature of joy.