“Sign for a School of Monsters” is an oil painting on canvas created by Max Ernst in 1968 in Paris, France. This symbolic painting, measuring 88 x 115 cm, is representative of the Surrealism movement and resides in a private collection.
The artwork portrays a surreal and enigmatic scene dominated by a striking palette of dark and vibrant hues. It features a predominantly dark background that fades into a deep, almost nebulous black, creating an atmosphere of mystery and depth. In the foreground, a curious creature with a large yellow, beaked head and webbed feet extends its limbs over an undulating, crimson landscape. The creature’s body has a textured, almost scaly appearance, emphasizing its monstrous nature. Nearby floats an indistinct, blue, saucer-like object with subtle details, contributing to the surreal and otherworldly ambiance of the composition. Additionally, splashes and specks of contrasting colors punctuate the scene, adding to the symbolic and abstract quality of the painting. This enigmatic and imaginative piece encapsulates Max Ernst’s unique and innovative vision as a key figure in the Surrealist art movement.
