The artwork titled “Adam and Eve” was created by Francis Picabia around 1931. This oil on canvas painting is part of Picabia’s “Transparencies” series and measures 200 by 110 centimeters. Executed in the Surrealist art movement, the religious-themed painting is presently held in a private collection.
The artwork presents an intriguing, layered composition depicting the biblical figures of Adam and Eve. The figures are rendered with an ethereal, transparent quality that reveals underlying forms and structures, exemplifying Picabia’s innovative approach in the “Transparencies” series. Adam is portrayed on the left, his eyes downcast and with a contemplative expression, while Eve stands to his right, appearing more engaged. Interwoven with these human forms is a large, translucent face that adds a surreal and mystical aspect to the scene. The background is dark and ambiguous, further enhancing the dreamlike quality of the painting. The intricate lines and subdued color palette create a haunting yet mesmerizing visual experience, consistent with the Surrealist aesthetic that challenges viewers’ perceptions and evokes deeper reflections on the nature of existence and humanity.