The artwork titled “2 At Cederine She Witnesses a Frightful Slaughter of Officers,” crafted by Henry Darger, falls under the categories of Art Brut and Japonism. This illustration exemplifies Darger’s unique style within the Art Brut movement, intersected with elements of Japonism.
In the artwork, a chaotic scene unfolds across multiple panels, depicting a vivid and turbulent battlefield. The composition is crowded with figures engaged in combat, illustrated in a detailed and frenetic manner. The scene is punctuated by explosive bursts and vibrant, contrasting colors, enhancing the sense of turmoil and violence. Trees and sparse vegetation frame the sides, while various figures populate the central and peripheral areas, bringing a dynamic and tumultuous quality to the scene.