Der Baum der Sehnsucht (The Tree of Longing) 1920

Heinrich Hoerle created "The Tree of Longing" using pen and ink; its date is unknown. Hoerle was part of the Cologne Progressives, a group of artists critical of the social conditions in Germany after World War I. In this work, Hoerle uses the symbol of a tree to explore themes of longing and desire. The stark, almost barren landscape and the stylized figures evoke a sense of isolation and introspection. The androgynous figure atop the cliff may reflect the artist's personal experiences, Hoerle felt alienated and disillusioned by the societal norms of his time. His work serves as a mirror reflecting both his inner turmoil and the collective anxieties of a society grappling with the aftermath of war. The tree itself becomes a metaphor for the human spirit, reaching for something beyond its grasp. It reminds us of our shared vulnerabilities and the universal quest for meaning in a world marked by uncertainty.