This play for shadow puppetry was written by Kurtz Schwitters in the mid-1920s – a time when he was writing several dramatic works and organising many “Merz” evenings, during which poems were recited. When it was premiered in Prague in 1927 (Schwitters attended the show), the play was performed by actors.

Laura, born from Friedrich’s mind, appears piece by piece. Once complete, she arouses Elena’s jealousy and is dismembered again by her. Lime, Emil’s shadow, appears to Elena, who falls in love with him. Friedrich recognises Lime, shoots him and runs away. Emil comes on and charms Elena, who tells him in which direction Lime went. Lime comes back as he chases Elena, then he declares his love to the two women. Friedrich’s loving gaze makes Laura disappear, one bit at a time, until nothing but her foot remains. Friedrich is jealous of Lime, the infidelity of which Laura forgave, and pounces on him with a knife. Emil arrives to reclaim his shadow. Elena, Emil and Lime embrace one another, while Friedrich leaves with Laura’s foot.