Artwork

Massacre at Dinant

Massacre at Dinant, by George Bellows, 1918
Massacre at Dinant, by George Bellows, 1918

Massacre at Dinant is a print by George Bellows. It dates from 1918 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Massacre at Dinant, a 1918 print by American realist George Bellows, deviates from his typical urban New York City subjects to depict a violent historical wartime event, showcasing his engagement with contemporary social and political issues.

Subject & Meaning

The print portrays a chaotic wartime scene of panic and violence, with figures in rough attire fighting or fallen, set against the backdrop of a ship, buildings, and a stormy sky, conveying the turmoil and desperation of the moment.

Technique & Style

Bellows utilized dramatic chiaroscuro lighting, where strong contrasts between light and dark make figures sharply stand out against the somber background, instilling a sense of urgency and chaos in the viewer.

History & Provenance

Created in 1918, Massacre at Dinant is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, marking a departure in subject matter for the artist known for his New York City urban landscapes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of George Bellows

Artist

George Bellows

George Wesley Bellows (August 12 or August 19, 1882 – January 8, 1925) was an American realist painter, known for his bold depictions of urban life in New York City.

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