Refuge, 1930, Oil and watercolor on plaster-coated gauz Paul Klee (1879-1940)

The composition presents a solitary figure positioned beneath a layered, tent-like structure. The color palette is dominated by muted earth tones – ochres, browns, and pinks – applied with a visible textural quality that suggests the use of watercolor alongside oil paint on an unusual gauz support. This contributes to a sense of fragility and impermanence.
The figure itself is rendered in a simplified, almost childlike style. Its head is disproportionately large compared to its body, and facial features are minimal – two dark dots indicating eyes and a faint suggestion of a mouth. The posture conveys vulnerability; the individual appears to be reclining or crouching, with an arm extended outwards as if seeking support or reaching for something beyond the immediate frame.
Above the figure, the layered structure resembles a tent or shelter, but its form is ambiguous. It’s not clearly defined, and the overlapping planes create a sense of enclosure while simultaneously suggesting openness to the unseen. The color variation within this upper section – ranging from lighter pinks to deeper browns – adds depth and complexity.
The surrounding space is largely consumed by darkness, which intensifies the isolation of the figure and emphasizes its dependence on the fragile shelter above. This stark contrast between light and shadow contributes to a feeling of unease and uncertainty. The dark areas also seem to absorb detail, preventing any clear definition of the background and further isolating the central subject.
Subtextually, the work seems to explore themes of refuge, vulnerability, and the search for security in an uncertain world. The simplified figure could represent humanity stripped bare, reliant on rudimentary protection against unseen threats. The tent-like structure might symbolize hope or a temporary reprieve from hardship, while its fragility underscores the precariousness of such safety. The extended arm suggests a longing for connection or assistance, hinting at a deeper emotional need beyond mere physical shelter. Overall, the painting evokes a sense of quiet desperation and an enduring human desire for solace amidst adversity.