German word

Kunstwerk

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈkʊnstˌvɛɐ̯k/

Meaning

  • neuter nounartwork

Example

In diesem Museum sind viele Kunstwerke ausgestellt.

Many artworks are on display in this museum.

Illustration for Kunstwerk (artwork)

More examples

Die Künstlerin hat gestern ein neues Kunstwerk geschaffen.

The female artist created a new artwork yesterday.

Core concept

A made object or creation valued for its artistic form or content, whether displayed in a museum or discussed in criticism.

Common phrases

  • ein Kunstwerk schaffen

    produce an artwork

  • ein Kunstwerk bewundern

    admire an artwork

Similar words

Bild: A picture or image enjoyed for its visual qualities, such as a photograph or drawing.
Gemälde: A flat painting made with paint on canvas or another surface.
Werk: A general term for an artistic creation produced by an artist.
Skulptur: A three-dimensional artwork made by carving, assembling, or shaping materials.

Definition in German

Als Kunstwerk gilt ein gestaltetes Objekt, dessen Form oder Inhalt allgemein als künstlerisch anerkannt wird.

Word origin

The compound joins the Germanic nouns Kunst and Werk to name a work belonging to the sphere of art.

Usage tips

  • Kunstwerk is broader than masterpiece, because masterpiece adds a stronger judgment of exceptional quality.

Opposites

  • Alltagsgegenstandobject for everyday usenoun

Word lists with this word