Composition II (Komposition II) (plate, folio 7) from Klänge (Sounds)

Composition II (Komposition II) (plate, folio 7) from Klänge (Sounds) is a seminal work by Vasily Kandinsky, executed in 1913. This specific plate is a woodcut, derived from an influential illustrated book that contained fifty-six distinct woodcuts created by the artist. The production of Klänge (Sounds) was crucial in establishing Kandinsky's theoretical and visual vocabulary during this transformative period, marking his decisive progression toward pure abstraction and the application of synesthetic principles.

The classification of this piece as an Illustrated Book entry highlights the artist’s commitment to integrating text and image, treating the woodcut not merely as a reproductive method but as a powerful, expressive medium in its own right. The technique emphasizes sharp lines and flat planes of contrasting black and white, amplifying the graphic force inherent in Kandinsky's non-objective compositions. The dynamic interplay of geometric and biomorphic shapes serves to evoke emotional or musical states, challenging traditional expectations of subject matter.

While Kandinsky is often associated with the German Expressionist group Der Blaue Reiter, the attribution of French culture to this 1913 work reflects the broad international dissemination and intellectual influence of his pioneering style across Europe, particularly among the developing Parisian avant-garde. The abstraction evident in Composition II moved decisively away from representational forms, relying entirely on formal relationships to convey meaning. This specific impression of the print is a vital component of the Museum of Modern Art’s permanent collection, where it serves as a key example of Kandinsky’s pivotal shift toward total abstraction just prior to the First World War, solidifying his role as a foundational figure in modern art.