Aufbau c. 1923

Karl Wiener made this gouache artwork, titled *Aufbau*, at an unknown date. The title "Aufbau" translates to "Construction" or "Structure" in English, suggesting that the artwork is intended to explore the idea of building or creating something new. In post-war Germany, this idea would have had particular resonance. The sharp, geometric shapes and bright colors evoke the constructivist art that was circulating at the time. But what is being constructed here? Is this about literally rebuilding after wartime devastation? Or is it about the construction of a new society? Wiener’s interest in geometric forms and abstract composition could be interpreted as a rejection of traditional artistic values and a turn towards a more modern, forward-looking aesthetic. The role of the historian is to dig deeper into the background of the artist. What were his political beliefs? What was the artistic scene like at the time? These are the kinds of questions that help us understand the work better.