The Kiss of Judas 1921

James Ensor, the Belgian artist, made "The Kiss of Judas" using crayon on paper. Ensor, whose career peaked in the late 19th century, was known for his avant-garde style, often filled with satirical and grotesque imagery, and his work often reflected the social and political unrest of his time. In this piece, Ensor portrays the biblical scene of Judas betraying Jesus with a kiss. The image is filled with expressive, almost cartoonish figures. Ensor blurs the lines between the sacred and the profane, using the historical narrative to comment on the hypocrisy and moral decay he perceived in society. The grotesque masks and exaggerated features reflect a deep skepticism towards authority and social norms. The composition conveys a sense of chaos and emotional intensity. The viewer is confronted with a raw, unfiltered glimpse into a moment of profound betrayal and human fallibility.