Bath
- Original dimensions
- 182 x 138 cm
- Museum
- Munch Museum
- Year
- 1907
Scene depicted
In this painting , Munch depicts an intimate and disturbing scene of women bathing in an atmosphere that is both serene and charged with emotion. The silhouettes appear floating, engulfed in the reflections of an aquatic life that questions both purity and vulnerability. This pictorial work transcends the moment to become an exploration of human feelings, evoking a dialogue between body and soul.
Historical context
Created in 1907, this painting is emblematic of the expressionist movement, which developed in Oslo, Norway. The painting, currently exhibited at the Munch Museum, reflects a time when art breaks free from conventions to explore the unconscious and human emotions. With an imposing size of 182 x 138 cm, this canvas is a gateway to a rich and vibrant inner world.
Place in the artist's career
Bath marks a turning point in Munch's career, revealing his unique and bold style. At this time, he was already distinguished by paintings such as The Scream and Madonna , which evoke intense emotions and inner pain. This painting thus fits into a continuity and refinement of his expressionism , showcasing his ability to capture human essence in its complexity.
Anecdote
“Painting is the memory of emotions,” Munch once declared, referring to the genesis of his masterpiece . On that spring morning, a sweet scent of flowers filled the air as he stood on the shore, contemplating the light-drenched silhouettes. This fleeting moment of beauty and fragility embodies the very essence of the canvas , testifying to the complexity of human relationships.