“Expulsion. Moon and Firelight,” an oil on canvas piece by Thomas Cole, was created circa 1828. This Romanticism landscape, with dimensions of 91 by 122 centimeters, resides in the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid, Spain.
The artwork presents a dramatic and evocative scene characteristic of the Romanticism movement. The composition juxtaposes the tranquil light of the moon in the background against the intense and chaotic firelight in the foreground. This contrast enhances the sense of turmoil and emotion, fundamental to Romanticism. The rugged and wild landscape, featuring a natural stone bridge and stark cliffs, creates a foreboding atmosphere. The burning firelight emanates from a fissure in the rock, casting shadows and highlighting the rough textures of the surroundings. The interplay of light and darkness in the artwork emphasizes the themes of conflict and expulsion, inviting viewers to contemplate the stark beauty and inherent drama of nature.
