The artwork titled “The Sphinx” by Felicien Rops, created between the years 1879 and 1882, employs the medium of lithography and belongs to the Symbolism art movement. It holds the dimensions of 28 x 20.9 cm and is classified under the genre of illustration.
The artwork prominently features a sphinx, a mythical creature known for its enigmatic and enigmatic allure. Central to the composition, a nude figure reclines upon the sphinx, seemingly intertwining human and mythical elements in a tableau that exudes a sense of mystery and tension. A second figure, depicted as a sinister, darkly-clad individual with exaggeratedly long, curved elements reminiscent of scythe blades, looms ominously above the sphinx and the reclining figure. The interplay of these surreal elements exemplifies the characteristics of the Symbolism movement, invoking complex and often ambiguous narratives that transcend straightforward interpretation. The illustration, rendered with delicate shading and intricate details, invites viewers to delve into its layers of meaning and symbolism, reflecting the artist’s masterful technique and imaginative vision.
