“Osiris and Isis” is a figurative artwork created by Anselm Kiefer between 1985 and 1987, and it is associated with the New European Painting art movement. The painting is a profound exploration of mythological themes, rendered in Kiefer’s signature style, which often incorporates a heavy, tactile surface.
The artwork presents an imposing and enigmatic scene, dominated by earthy tones such as deep browns and blacks, with hints of lighter hues scattered throughout. It appears to depict a vast, tiered structure or landscape that evokes the monumental scale of ancient civilizations. The texture is rich and layered, suggesting the passage of time and the stratification of history. The background is dark and tumultuous, possibly representing a troubled sky or cosmic backdrop. Scattered across the surface are fragments of materials that resemble what could be papyrus or ceramic shards, integrating tangible elements into the painted composition. This inclusion adds a three-dimensional aspect to the work, further emphasizing the theme of historical depth and decay.