By the Deathbed (Fever) I 1915

Edvard Munch painted 'By the Deathbed (Fever) I' in Norway, sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. It's an oil painting, showing a group of people gathered around a deathbed. Given that the art world has traditionally focused on themes of heroism, beauty and faith, you might wonder why Munch chose such a dark subject. Well, in 19th-century Europe, death was a constant presence, especially from diseases like tuberculosis. This painting isn't just a personal expression, but a reflection on cultural anxieties around mortality. The figures are painted with visible brushstrokes and intense colors, reflecting the emotional turmoil associated with death. The faces are pale and distorted, conveying a sense of grief and despair. Notice how the setting is claustrophobic, intensifying the feeling of dread. To fully understand the power of art, it's important to consider its original context. Researching the social history of 19th-century Europe, including the prevalence of disease, will help unlock more meaning in this artwork.