The artwork, titled “The Massacre of the Innocents,” was created by Kent Monkman in 2015. It is an exemplary piece within the art movements of Classical Realism and Postcolonial art. The genre of the artwork is both figurative and religious painting.
The artwork presents a vivid and dynamic scene set against a vast, picturesque landscape. In the foreground, chaotic human activity unfolds with figures engaged in violent confrontations, brandishing weapons and struggling with one another. Their urgent and tumultuous gestures suggest a dramatic narrative of conflict and suffering. The backdrop consists of expansive rolling hills and a range of mountains under an airy, cloud-filled sky, enhancing the contrast between the natural beauty of the setting and the brutality of the depicted actions. Trees in various stages of growth and decay punctuate the scene, contributing to the overall sense of vitality and tension. Monkman’s piece captures a moment of intensity and emotional depth, prompting reflection on historical and sociopolitical themes.
