The Rape of the Sabine Women 

James Ensor made this sketch, The Rape of the Sabine Women, using pencil on paper. Ensor was Belgian and a leading figure in the development of expressionism. Here, he grapples with the complex legacy of classical mythology, choosing to depict a violent scene, one laden with sexual and political tension. The story of the Sabine women has been a recurring theme in art history. Here, Ensor presents it with raw emotion and stark lines, almost reveling in the chaos of the moment. He forces us to confront the darker aspects of the classical past. The sketch is rendered with a frenzied energy, capturing the desperation of the women and the brutal force of their captors. Ensor’s choice of subject matter is not without its controversies, as it perpetuates the historical erasure of women's experiences and voices. The artist lived through immense social change and political upheaval. Perhaps this work reflects a fascination with power, conflict, and the disruption of social norms. It serves as a reminder of how historical narratives can perpetuate violence.