The Monkey

This piece is a softer example of Marc’s work. As founding father of Der Blaue Reiter - a bastion of German Expressionism - and inspired by Cubism,  Marc’s style is typically brighter and more angular than in this piece. Other depictions by Marc of animals focus on the geometric shape and pattern of the beast; in this painting the artist has portrayed the single monkey in a softer, more realistic tone and shape. Perhaps this decision has been made to get across the personality of the animal which has been singled out in an intimate portrayal. The colours in the work are vivid but well blended. Bright greens, yellows, and oranges dominate the palette. The monkey is our focal point, standing out from the more abstract shapes of the jungle behind him. The more discernible elements in the background include three oranges, and a pure white flower which actually draws attention away from the central figure.