Understanding "The Wanderer Above The Sea of Fog"

Delving into the Contrasting Themes of Friedrich's Enigmatic Masterpiece

(The Wanderer Above The Sea of Fog, Caspar David Friedrich, 1818)

Few artworks are as synonymous with an entire art movement as this work. A discussion of the 19th-century Romantic movement would be incomplete without mentioning this magnificent painting. This painting holds great personal significance for me. I still vividly recall encountering this striking image for the first time in the 10th grade. The endless possibilities offered by the sea of fog to the wanderer are inspiring. I often imagine myself in the shoes of the wanderer. A strong emotional affirmation that proclaims "I can do it" usually derives from this painting.

The more I learned about this painting, the artist, and the period it represents, the more I realized how unique it is. As I see it, this painting is open to two entirely opposite yet plausible interpretations:

The Pro-Man Perspective

“The Wanderer" is frequently seen as a celebration and idealization of humanity's potential. There is evidence to suggest that it embodies the belief that humans possess the power to overcome nature's challenges, ascend the highest peaks, and achieve their ambitions on Earth. This perspective is rooted in the Enlightenment era's emphasis on reason, progress, and individual achievement, which shaped the cultural and intellectual landscape of the time. As the wanderer stands above the vast expanse of fog, he serves as a symbol of human determination and resilience in the face of life's uncertainties and the forces of nature. This interpretation resonates with the spirit of exploration and scientific advancement that characterized the 19th century, further underscoring the painting's relevance and impact as a testament to the indomitable human spirit. 

This is a very peaceful and relaxing scene. A great feeling of happiness is the first feeling I can imagine the Wanderer feeling when reaching the summit. A great sense of accomplishment. After all the struggles that he might have faced during his effort to reach the summit, he finally has time to “take it all in,” and this is what this scene depicts. A great man, completing a difficult task and enjoying the moment. This man is not scared. He looks at nature with a sense of composure. He is an able man. Perhaps the most romantic element in this painting is that this is the depiction of the complete ideal. The total victory of man over any obstacle he has faced. 

Try to think of a moment in your life in which you have faced a great struggle but kept on, despite everything you kept on struggling and striving to achieve your ends. Now imagine the moment that comes right after the victory. This is the moment that Friedrich depicts here. And it’s a very calm and peaceful moment. All that is now left for you is to reflect on your achievements and contemplate what should come next. 

Try to imagine the sound of this scene. I can only imagine the gentle sound of the mountain winds, perhaps some birds flying in the distance. This is the same sound that comes after any big victory. The calm after the storm. This is truly what this painting is about. 

Or is that so? 

The Pro-God Perspective

From the opposite perspective, it can be said that this painting portrays humans as small and superficial beings. It may seem clear to humans that they can climb mountains and achieve their goals on Earth, but when they actually reach the summit, they can see how insignificant they are in comparison to nature or God. Humans cannot see through the sea of fog. We can observe in the distance that there are still higher peaks, implying that no matter how hard humans try, they can never conquer the tallest peaks; there is always something larger and more important than humanity.

(The Monk By The Sea, Caspar David Friedrich, 1810)

(Winter Landscape With Church, Caspar David Freidrich, 1811)

This perspective seems even more plausible when considering the rest of Friedrich's works. A common theme throughout his paintings is the insignificance of humans compared to nature. The more religious works, such as "Winter Landscape With Church," explicitly convey the idea that humans need salvation and assistance from God.

How Can We Resonate Between Friedrich’s Past Works And “The Wanderer”?

How is it possible for a painter, after creating a long series of religious and pessimistic works, to suddenly produce such a glorious celebration of human ability?

I identify two possible reconciliations:

1. The 19th century was a period of mixed philosophical ideas. Positive elements from the Enlightenment era persisted, while darker ideas were relatively new or rebranded from old religious concepts. At certain points in Friedrich's life, religious elements were more prominent than others. In 1818, Friedrich married his wife, Caroline Bommer, marking the happiest period of his life. This marriage might have led Friedrich to adopt a more benevolent view of life, enabling him to create "The Wanderer." His life had improved, so he embraced the more positive ideas still prevalent in his culture.

2. Artists are not perfect. This painting might be an example of a painter failing to execute his vision. It could represent an error. Friedrich may have intended to achieve the effect he accomplished in works such as "The Monk By The Sea," but due to different proportions and compositions, he failed to do so.

Conclusion

(Woman Before The Setting of The Sun, Caspar David Friedrich, 1818)

What makes "The Wanderer Above The Sea of Fog" so captivating is its ambivalence. The interpretation is left to the viewer. The question of the artist's intention is fascinating from an art history perspective and remains a matter of controversy. Regardless of its history, this is an incredibly beautiful painting. There is no doubt about it. Take a good look at it and see if you can enjoy it as much as I do.

All I have left to say now is: "Dankeschön, Herr Friedrich.” for bringing us the gift of his beautiful art.

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In December of this year (2023), to celebrate Friedrich’s 250th birthday, the Hamburger Kunsthalle will exhibit over 50 of Friedrich’s paintings and close to 100 of his drawings. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I encourage you all to fly to Hamburg to witness this sublime spectacle. Check out the full details here.