Island of the Dead

Arnold Böcklin

Created:
Movement:
1880
Symbolism
key Notes:
Mysterious symbolism, haunting seascape
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Dimensions:
29 x 48 in. (73.7 x 121.9 cm)
medium:
Oil on wood
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

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Arnold Böcklin's "Island of the Dead" (1880)

Arnold Böcklin, a Swiss symbolist painter, created "Island of the Dead" in 1880 using oil on wood, a medium that allowed for intricate detail and depth. This painting is one of Böcklin's most famous works, known for its haunting and mysterious atmosphere, which has captivated audiences and inspired numerous interpretations. The artwork depicts a desolate island with cypress trees and a solitary figure in a boat, evoking themes of death and the afterlife. Böcklin's use of symbolism and mood in this piece had a significant impact on the Symbolist movement and influenced later artists, including the Surrealists. The painting's enigmatic quality and emotional resonance have made it a subject of fascination in art history. Böcklin's work reflects his interest in mythology and the metaphysical, elements that are prevalent throughout his oeuvre.

Description of the work:

Island of the Dead by Arnold Böcklin

Arnold Böcklin's "Island of the Dead," created in 1880, is an evocative oil on wood painting that depicts a desolate, rocky islet with cypress trees, conveying a somber and mysterious atmosphere. The artwork is characterized by its Symbolist style, which emphasizes mood and emotion over realistic representation.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Island of the Dead