The Funeral
- Original dimensions
- 60.5 x 80.5 cm
- Museum
- Munch Museum
- Year
- 1904
Scene depicted
In this striking composition, Munch takes us to the heart of a funeral, where each character embodies grief and loss. The scene, enveloped in soft light, juxtaposes the pain of facing death and the haunting beauty of the moment, creating a painting charged with tension and emotion.
Historical context
Created in 1904, in the heart of Oslo, this canvas is situated in the poignant artistic movement of Symbolism. At that time, Munch explores the complexities of the human condition, influenced by his Nordic heritage and the turmoil of his time. Today, the painting The Funeral is carefully preserved at the Munch Museum, where its emotional impact continues to question and fascinate.
Place in the artist's career
The Funeral represents an important milestone in Munch's artistic journey. Emerging from a period of personal turmoil, this pictorial work dialogues with other paintings like The Dance of Life and The Scream, revealing a maturation and growing emotional depth in his work.
Anecdote
“Every stroke I paint is a confession,” said Munch, evoking the emotional power that animated him. Inspired by a misty morning, where shadows danced between life and death, the artist immersed himself in an atmosphere of melancholy, capturing the very essence of this painting that results.
Major exhibitions
Munch and France