The artwork, titled “The Empress of Sorrow,” was created by Eric Fischl in 1992. It belongs to the Contemporary Realism art movement and is classified as a genre painting.
The artwork illustrates a poignant scene, characterized by intricate details and a vivid color palette. Dominating the scene is a carousel horse, adorned with vibrant hues of white, yellow, and red, positioned centrally. To the left, a man dressed in a light-colored suit leans against the carousel framework, exuding a contemplative demeanor. In the foreground, a woman dressed in an elaborate red and white patterned robe, evocative of traditional Asian attire, occupies a significant portion of the composition. Her expression is one of deep sorrow, reinforced by the title of the work. The background is meticulously detailed, featuring ornate designs and a lush green backdrop that adds depth to the overall scene. The interplay of light and shadow accentuates the emotional gravity of the painting, making it a compelling example of Contemporary Realism.
