Seraphim 

Wilhelm Kotarbinski painted this Seraphim during an era defined by shifting cultural and political landscapes in Europe. Kotarbinski, of Polish descent, navigated a world marked by the decline of empires and the rise of nationalism. His art often depicted the ethereal and spiritual, perhaps as a refuge from earthly turmoil. Here, the Seraphim, traditionally depicted as powerful, celestial beings, is rendered with a soft, almost melancholic gaze. Kotarbinski may be inviting us to consider the emotional and psychological dimensions of faith. The androgynous features of the angel challenge traditional gender norms. Does this reflect a personal belief or a broader cultural movement toward gender fluidity? Ultimately, this Seraphim becomes a mirror, reflecting the complexities of faith, identity, and the human condition.