The artwork, created by Max Ernst in 1922 in Cologne, Germany, is titled “Illustration for ‘The Misfortunes of the Immortals'” and is part of the art movement known as Surrealism. This piece is an illustration belonging to the series “The Misfortunes of the Immortals”.
The artwork unfolds a surreal scene depicted with an enigmatic composition. It features a human figure, adorned in a manner reminiscent of traditional attire yet seemingly anachronistic and unusual. The figure is positioned atop a contraption with an archaic appearance, as if it is a fantastical machine. Surrounding this human figure, fantastical creatures add an element of the bizarre, blending realism with imagination. The illustration employs a monochromatic palette, emphasizing contrasts and creating a striking visual impact, invoking a sense of curiosity and wonder characteristic of Surrealism. The composition challenges conventional perceptions of reality, inviting the viewer to delve into a world where the ordinary is intertwined with the extraordinary.
