The artwork entitled “Two sisters” by Max Ernst is an oil painting on canvas that belongs to the Surrealism art movement, specifically categorized as a symbolic painting. Created by the artist, this piece is currently part of a private collection, indicating that it is not on public display and is owned individually.
Examining the artwork more closely, it presents an ethereal composition of two abstract figures that seem to evoke the idea of sisters. The forms are elongated and stylized, devoid of realistic human features, yet suggesting a humanoid shape. The piece makes use of a restrained color palette, with a predominance of earthy tones and subtle color highlights that catch the eye—notes of red and blue punctuate the otherwise monochromatic scheme.
The canvas is filled with textured strokes and what appears to be a deliberate avoidance of clear definition, characteristics associated with the Surrealist movement where the unconscious mind and dream imagery often take precedence over reality. The enigmatic figures stand side by side, seeming to have a quiet communication between themselves. Ernst’s artwork is a synthesis of the irrational and the symbolic, an invitation to the viewer to interpret the mysterious relationship and narrative hidden within the non-representational forms. The year noted in the bottom left corner, “1926,” provides context to the period in which Ernst was actively contributing to the Surrealist movement.
