Genesis II by Franz Marc

Franz Marc's works stretched from paintings, such as Fighting Forms (1914), to woodcuts such as this, Genesis II. Woodcuts are produced by an artist carving the desired design into a block of wood along the grain of the wood.

Ink is then rolled onto the surface of the wood so that it can be used to print. Any items to the surface of the wood print and leave marks, while anything cut into the wood leaves little or no ink, and the desired artworks are created this way.

This painting, Genesis II, was producing using only yellow, black and greens. It clearly depicts animalistic forms, however it is far more unclear then some of his earlier works. It is a clear indication of his descent from animalistic form and clear images into formless abstraction.

This piece is chaotic, produced at a time when conflict was imminent, and German propaganda was seeping into the minds of the citizens. Little information is actually provided on the actual work, however it can be interpreted.

It appears to depict both a fox and a snake in a natural setting. Perhaps these two could be methods of representing his or Germany's feelings towards opposing nations. The fox symbolises the cunning of enemy countries, prepared to surprise them and strike, or their slyness, and the possibility of them attempting to take away what rightfully belongs to them.

The snake could show the threat of this opposition, how if given the chance they will strike and deliver a killer blow to the stability and lifeline of his country.

They could also be interpreted as being representations of Germany itself. Germany was cunning and clever. They had a thriving economy and planned to fight to improve that with new tactics never explored. They were also a powerful, deadly nation to be feared by others, like a snake in the animal kingdom. This painting is quite unclear but likely depicts the relationship of Germany in troubled times with other countries through symbolism.