Moonlight. Night in St. Cloud (Måneskinn. Natt i St. Cloud)

Moonlight. Night in St. Cloud (Måneskinn. Natt i St. Cloud) is a stark, evocative print executed by Edvard Munch in 1895. This powerful example of early graphic work utilizes the combined techniques of drypoint and etching. Created during a critical period in the Norwegian artist’s career, this piece captures the intense, internal moodiness characteristic of Symbolism and nascent Expressionism. The subject matter reflects the time Munch spent near Paris, likely depicting a solitary figure observing the nocturnal landscape of the suburb of Saint-Cloud.

The expressive power of this image lies in Munch's innovative handling of the medium. The drypoint technique, which involves scratching directly into the plate, yields rich, velvety burrs that trap the ink, lending the shadows a deep, textural density. Conversely, the etched lines define the formal structure of the scene. The central feature of Moonlight. Night in St. Cloud is the ethereal moonlight, rendered through stark contrasts, which cuts across the darkness and illuminates the figure's isolated silhouette. This dramatic interplay of light and shadow emphasizes themes of alienation, melancholy, and the solitary contemplation that were central to Munch’s contemporary artistic projects, including his developing Frieze of Life cycle.

Munch’s pioneering approach to etching and drypoint helped solidify his reputation as a master graphic artist, enabling him to translate his uniquely emotional vision into widely reproducible prints. As one of the most important images created in 1895, this work demonstrates the technical brilliance and psychological depth that define the artist’s profound contribution to modern art. The significance of this masterful print is recognized by its inclusion in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), where it remains a key artifact illustrating the psychological intensity of late nineteenth-century Norwegian art.