Paul Klee (1879-1940)

Laternenfest Bauhaus was designed as a postcard for the Bauhaus Lantern Festival of 1922, with a limited number, including the present lot, hand-coloured by the artist. Other examples of this watercolour over lithograph are housed in museums such as the Museum of Modern Art, New York, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Stedelijk Museum, Amsterdam, and National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne.

The text on the reverse of the present work reads:
'Weimar, 25. VI. 22.
Wörthstr. 48
Dear M.’chen,
This is a genuine Klee, appreciate it despite the apparent ridiculousness. Most notably: When is the wedding?? I am miserable: the beautiful book I wanted to give to you both is out of print, will not be published anymore at present. Are you very involved in preparations, is mother there? – I was promised my own studio here, that will be paid for by the state. The university acquired a head from me the day before yesterday. I attended 2 artist festivities; the modern Bauhaus is very stimulating and attracts many interesting people. This is good. Otherwise W. is narrow-minded. I just do something good. Do write eventually!
Cordially, yours
Ottilie / Sculptress Ottilie Schäfer
I’m coming in autumn!'