“The Beginning of Life” is an artwork created by Frantisek Kupka around the year 1900. Crafted using the medium of etching on paper, this piece belongs to the Symbolism art movement and falls under the genre of symbolic painting. Presently, the artwork is housed at the Georges Pompidou Center in Paris, France.
The artwork portrays a metaphysical scene, imbued with a rich, contemplative atmosphere characteristic of Symbolism. Dominated by warm, earthy hues, it depicts large, floating lotus blossoms against a placid, reflective water surface. Central to the composition is a prominent, spherical form containing an embryonic figure, symbolizing the inception of life. This form is enveloped by other circular shapes and luminous elements, which further enhance the symbolic representation of creation and the essence of existence. The intricate detailing of the lotus pads and their serene arrangement against the abstract background accentuate the mystical and transcendent quality of the piece.