Pieta or Revolution by Night (1923) by Max Ernst

Pieta or Revolution by Night - Max Ernst - 1923

Artwork Information

TitlePieta or Revolution by Night
ArtistMax Ernst
Date1923
MediumOil on Canvas
Dimensions116.2 x 88.9 cm
Art MovementSurrealism
Current LocationTate Modern, London, UK
Location Created Paris, France
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About Pieta or Revolution by Night

Pieta or Revolution by Night is a painting created in 1923 by Max Ernst, an artist from the early period of the surrealist movement. As the title suggests, it reflects the revolutionary sentiments that characterized this artistic current. In contrast to traditional representations of Mary holding Jesus, Ernst replaced them with an image of himself being held by his father. This detail has been interpreted as symbolic of the turbulent relationship between the artist and his father.

The painting displays clear influences from Freudian psychology and reveals how war impacted Ernst’s generation’s psyche. Its inclusion in Tate Gallery in London’s collection is evidence of its importance within art history.

Max Ernst’s Pieta or Revolution by Night is an excellent example of art from the early period of surrealism where artists rebelled against traditional values and sought revolution through creativity. The work uses personal symbolism to express broader political and social themes related to war and family relationships. It demonstrates how revolutionary ideals intertwined with psychology, making it a significant contribution to modern art movements.

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