Adam and Eve with the Dead Abel 1900

Carl Bonnesen made this sculpture, “Adam and Eve with the Dead Abel”, with bronze. At first glance this sculpture appears to be a literal depiction of the biblical story, but what if we consider this artwork as a reflection on societal issues of Bonnesen's time, particularly concerning gender and the burden of grief? Eve's exaggerated sorrow draws our attention. Her pose isn't just about grief; it speaks to the societal expectations placed on women to embody and express sorrow, a role that can often overshadow their own needs and experiences. Meanwhile, Adam looks despondent and helpless. The sculpture captures a moment of profound emotional reckoning, challenging traditional narratives of masculine stoicism and feminine emotionality. This sculpture makes you consider not just the biblical narrative, but also the broader human experience of loss. It invites you to reflect on how grief is gendered, and how societal expectations can shape our emotional expressions.