The artwork titled “Of This Men Shall Know Nothing” was crafted by Max Ernst in 1923 in Paris, France. It is executed in oil on canvas and is a noted piece within the Surrealism art movement. The artwork, measuring 81 by 64 centimeters, belongs to the genre of symbolic painting and is currently housed in the Tate Modern, London, UK.
The artwork is an enigmatic and dreamlike composition, characterized by its surreal and symbolic elements. It depicts two pairs of legs intertwined in a circular motion, forming a horizontally oriented shape reminiscent of celestial bodies. Suspended above a barren, desolate landscape, these figures evoke a sense of otherworldliness and mysticism. Below them, geometric forms, including conical shapes and a disembodied hand, further contribute to the artwork’s dreamscape quality. The muted, earthy tones of the landscape contrast with the bright, almost ethereal depiction of the legs and geometric shapes, creating a striking juxtaposition that emphasizes the surreal nature of the piece. The meticulous use of lines and the careful arrangement of elements within the composition reflect Ernst’s mastery in creating symbolic and thought-provoking imagery that challenges the viewer’s perception and interpretation.
