Who painted Death at the Ball?

Death at the Ball was painted by Félicien Rops in 1870.

Where can I see Death at the Ball?

Death at the Ball is held by Kröller-Müller Museum.

What movement is Death at the Ball?

Death at the Ball is associated with Realism.

Artwork

Death at the Ball

Félicien Rops , 1870

Death at the Ball is an oil painting by the Realist artist Félicien Rops. It dates from 1870 and is held in the collection of the Kröller-Müller Museum.

About this work

Overview

Death at the Ball is a 1870 oil painting by Félicien Rops, a Belgian artist associated with various avant-garde movements.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a woman in a torn white dress with bloodstains, lying on the floor amidst a dark, gradient background, conveying a somber atmosphere and exploring themes of mortality and societal critique.

Technique & Style

Rops employed chiaroscuro to create depth and contrast, drawing attention to the woman's face and body, and emphasizing the emotions and mood of the scene, characteristic of the Realist movement.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the Kröller-Müller Museum's collection, reflecting Rops' connections to Les XX and his recognition within avant-garde circles during the Parisian fin de siècle.

Artist & collection

Artist

Félicien Rops

Félicien Victor Joseph Rops (French: ; 7 July 1833 – 23 August 1898) was a Belgian artist associated with Symbolism, Decadence, and the Parisian fin de siècle, and was a member of the Les XX group.