Eesti kunsti oksjonid

Mezzotint on paper. 1979.
Signature: Hingede öö – “Kalivägi”, metsotinto 29/50 / K. Põllu, 1979

“We know who we are, we know who we are going as. /…/ But there can’t be only a going, there must also be a coming. We, who went, will also come back. We don’t really know as whom, perhaps as a human being, as a baby from the womb, perhaps visibly, perhaps invisibly, inaudibly, disembodiedly like a breeze, like a thought, like a dream. But no matter how, we will always come, we will return to our own, we are with you, we will stay with you, we will become you, you will become us, always and always.”

—Jaan Kaplinski

Kaljo Põllu’s (1934-2010) unceasing work with the wisdom and valuable life experiences of his ancestors is also expressed in the graphic print “Night of Souls”. The autumnal All Souls’ Phase falls between Michaelmas and All Souls’ Day (according to some opinions, its end is Mardi Gras or even Christmas). It was a time when the souls of departed ancestors were honored and they were expected to visit. A sauna was heated for them and a table was laid where the host and hostess would invite the souls of their loved ones to eat. They usually also asked them for protection for their fields and livestock. When All Souls’ Day ended, the guests were thanked and respectfully sent away again.

Kaljo Põllu draws the viewer’s attention to the sky where three bright white swans – soul birds – emerge from the velvety dark surface of the mezzotint. The men rowing on the lake with its Finno-Ugric peace are protected and guarded. It is All Souls’ Night, when more than usual, it’s worth thinking about those who have passed away and those who are still by our side every day. To notice those in need and to be grateful for everything that has been given to us – especially for life itself.

Text: Vappu Thurlow, Katre Palm