The artwork titled “Untitled (The Eternal Flame)” by Alfred Kubin, created in 1900, belongs to the Symbolism art movement. It is classified as a symbolic painting. This particular piece reflects the typical characteristics of Symbolist art, which often delves into the realm of dreams, visions, and the psychological.
In the artwork, there is a haunting image that includes a large, ghostly skull that appears to be emitting or reflecting a beam of light. This beam originates from a trellis-like structure beneath the skull, suggesting a brazier or a source of fire, playing into the concept of “The Eternal Flame.” The skull is central in the composition and dominates the scene, with a dark background enhancing its spectral quality. Below the skull and the light source, there appears to be a gathering of figures or silhouettes immersed in shadows. They are huddled together, seemingly gazing up at the skull, further invoking a sense of ceremony, ritual, or perhaps morbid fascination.
The use of a dark palette and the stark contrast between the skull and the deep shadows create a chilling, somber atmosphere typical of Kubin’s work, which often explores themes of death and the macabre through heavy symbolism.
