6 Must-See Artworks of the Symbolism Art Movement

The Symbolism art movement emerged in the late 19th century, revolutionizing the art world with its focus on emotions and the metaphysical.

Symbolist artists used rich, evocative imagery and metaphors to convey deeper, often hidden meanings, shifting the emphasis from literal representations to the symbolic significance of each element.

Spanning from the 1880s to the early 1900s, Symbolism began in France and Belgium before gaining international acclaim.

This movement not only influenced painting but also poetry, sculpture, and literature, paving the way for Modernism and Surrealism.

By delving into the subconscious and spiritual realms, Symbolist artworks offer profound insights into the human psyche and artistic creativity.

In this article, we’ll explore six standout artworks from the Symbolism movement, highlighting how these pieces encapsulate the essence and enduring legacy of this captivating artistic era.

1. The Scream by Edvard Munch

Edvard Munch’s The Scream stands as a pinnacle of Symbolist art, capturing raw human emotion with striking intensity.

Painted in 1893, it portrays a lone figure on a bridge, overwhelmed by existential angst and fear. Munch masterfully uses swirling lines and bold colors to emphasize the character’s inner turmoil.

This artwork reflects his personal struggles with anxiety, inspired by a distressing walk he took with friends.

The Scream not only symbolizes universal feelings of alienation but also bridges Symbolism and Expressionism, influencing countless artists. Notably, a version sold for $119.9 million at Sotheby’s in 2013, highlighting its enduring significance.

2. The Kiss of Judas by Gustave Moreau

Blending Symbolism with biblical themes, Gustave Moreau’s The Kiss of Judas (c. 1860) depicts the moment Judas betrays Jesus to Roman soldiers with a kiss.

Showcasing Moreau’s detailed and imaginative style, the painting emphasizes the shock of betrayal in an otherwise ordinary scene.

Reflecting his fascination with biblical narratives, Moreau uses rich symbolism to convey complex allegorical themes.

Illustrating the emotional intensity, the artwork captures the profound sense of treachery and moral conflict inherent in the biblical story.

Enhancing the scene, Moreau’s meticulous attention to detail invites viewers to explore deeper emotional and spiritual layers.

3. The Apparition by Gustave Moreau

Gustave Moreau’s The Apparition exemplifies his mastery of dreamlike and otherworldly themes. The artwork blurs the lines between myth and reality, a hallmark of the Symbolist movement.

Moreau’s intricate detailing and ethereal composition create a trance-like atmosphere, inviting viewers into a mysterious realm.

This piece reflects his fascination with the subconscious, using rich symbolism to convey deeper emotional and spiritual narratives.

The Apparition not only showcases Moreau’s creative prowess but also influenced a new generation of French artists, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of Symbolist art.

4. The Bourgeois Salon by James Ensor

James Ensor’s The Bourgeois Salon (c. 1881) captures a profound sense of melancholy and emptiness characteristic of Symbolist art. The painting features two individuals at a breakfast table, their heads bowed in despair.

Ensor sets this somber scene in a Victorian English room, where bursts of sunlight stream through the window, contrasting the overall glum atmosphere.

Through this composition, Ensor emphasizes the emotional isolation and inner turmoil of the bourgeoisie.

The artwork showcases his skill in using subtle symbolism to convey deep psychological states, making it a standout piece in the Symbolism movement.

5. The Cyclops by Odilon Redon

Odilon Redon’s The Cyclops (1914) exemplifies Symbolism with its minimalist portrayal of the mythical one-eyed creature.

The singular eye stands out against a lush backdrop of floral foliage, highlighting the stark contrast between simplicity and chaos.

This composition symbolizes the inner emptiness that persists despite existing in a tumultuous world.

Redon’s unique interpretation of classical mythology reflects his fascination with literary and mythical characters, infusing them with deeper emotional and metaphysical meanings.

The Cyclops remains a testament to Redon’s ability to blend the fantastical with profound symbolic expression, making it a standout piece in the Symbolist movement.

Its minimal design focuses attention on the lone eye, inviting viewers to explore themes of isolation and perception.

6. Ophelia by Odilon Redon

Odilon Redon’s Ophelia (c. 1900) captures the essence of Shakespeare’s tragic heroine with a haunting elegance.

The artwork portrays a spectral female figure surrounded by intricate, symbolic foliage, highlighting Ophelia’s inner sorrow and fragility.

Redon’s use of monochromatic tones and soft lines enhances the ethereal atmosphere, emphasizing the emotional depth of the character.

By blending literary inspiration with his distinctive Symbolist style, Redon explores themes of despair and beauty.

Ophelia exemplifies his talent for transforming classic narratives into evocative visual poetry, making it a standout piece in the Symbolism movement.