Artwork

Vampire

Vampire, by Edvard Munch, oil, 1916
Vampire, by Edvard Munch, oil, 1916

Vampire is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Edvard Munch. It dates from 1916 and is held in the collection of the Munch Museum.

About this work

Overview

Vampire, a 1916 oil painting by Edvard Munch, is a representation of intimate human connection, characterized by expressive brushwork and a muted color palette.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a nude woman with long red hair embracing a man with an obscured face, set against a dark green background. The warm tones of the woman's body contrast with the cooler hues of the man, suggesting a dynamic of emotional and physical intimacy.

Technique & Style

Munch's post-Impressionist style is evident in the loose, expressive brushstrokes and visible texture, which add depth to the image. This approach emphasizes the emotional and psychological nuances of the scene.

History & Provenance

Created in 1916, Vampire is part of Munch's broader exploration of inner turmoil and symbolic expression. The work is currently held in the Munch Museum.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Edvard Munch

Artist

Edvard Munch

Edvard Munch ( MUUNK; Norwegian: ; 12 December 1863 – 23 January 1944) was a Norwegian painter.

Munch Museum

Museum

Munch Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Munch Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.