Tragedy
- Original dimensions
- 78.11 x 119.38 cm
- Museum
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Year
- 1898
Scene depicted
This canvas is emotive and presents a poignant scene, where human figures, frozen in a moment of existential crisis, blaze with dramatic intensity. The composition draws us into a collective imagination, a resonance of fears and hopes, a promise of personal revelation. A pictorial work that is not just seen, but lived, poignant and unforgettable.
Historical context
Created in 1898, this painting masterfully emerges at the crossroads between symbolism and expressionism , in full effervescence in Oslo, Norway. The canvas , now exhibited at the Minneapolis Institute of Art , reflects the emotional whirlwind of a troubled era and questions the human condition while capturing the melancholy of a suspended moment. The dimensions of this work, 78.11 x 119.38 cm, evoke a poignant presence, captivating the gaze and mind of the viewer.
Place in the artist's career
“Tragedy” represents the very heart of Munch's career, marked by an unceasing quest for raw emotion. This masterpiece parallels works like “The Scream” and “The Madonna,” demonstrating a technical and emotional progression. Here, we observe the evolution of a deeply humanistic artist, a true precursor of expressionism .
Anecdote
“The tears and cries of pain are the true language of the soul,” Munch said when discussing his inspirations. Imagine this moment of solitude, an alley in Oslo, bathed in soft light, where he captures the depth of human emotions. It is in this setting that the painting “Tragedy” comes to life, witnessing the inner struggles and silent cries.