“The Travel of Romance, Scene I” is a 1994 artwork by Eric Fischl, a prominent figure in the Contemporary Realism movement. This piece is part of “The Travel of Romance” series and belongs to the genre of nude painting (nu).
The artwork portrays two figures in a setting that appears evocative and deeply intimate. A stark contrast is depicted between the figures: one is illuminated, crouched and rendered in lighter tones, while the other, depicted in darker shades, almost interweaves into the background. The detailed rendering of the surroundings and the stark contrast of light and dark contribute to a compelling, emotive atmosphere. The composition and the use of light significantly enhance the underlying themes of intimacy and reflection present within the scene.