The artwork, titled “Incantation,” created by Felicien Rops circa 1885, is an engraving that belongs to the Symbolism art movement. This illustration measures 32 x 18 cm, and it exemplifies the intricate and evocative style associated with Symbolist works.
The artwork depicts a richly detailed interior scene filled with mystical and esoteric imagery. Dominating the scene, a nude female figure stands upon a platform, casting an incantation with a fluid and ethereal gesture. Surrounding her, the walls are adorned with ornate murals and religious iconography, suggesting a blend of sacred and arcane elements. In the foreground, a scholar or magician is seated, engrossed in a large tome filled with cryptic text and illustrations, signifying a deep engagement with occult knowledge. The room is cluttered with various mystical paraphernalia, including candles, books, potions, and alchemical instruments, which further enhance the atmosphere of mystical practices. The artwork’s composition, with its meticulous attention to detail and symbolism, invites viewers into a world of magic and mystery, characteristic of the Symbolist aesthetic.
