The Meeting 

Paul Delvaux created "The Meeting," using ink and wash on paper. Delvaux lived through two World Wars, and this context is critical for understanding his exploration of the human condition. Here, Delvaux challenges traditional representations of the nude, particularly the male nude, often historically depicted as symbols of heroism or idealized beauty. Instead, his figures appear vulnerable and self-absorbed. The encounter between these figures does not seem to lead to connection or understanding. The scene is set in a classical architectural background, yet the narrative feels suspended, dreamlike. Delvaux's work often delves into themes of isolation and the complexities of human relationships, reflecting the alienation and psychological introspection prevalent in post-war art. His surrealist-leaning style captures a world that is both familiar and unsettling. The artist once stated: "I have always been drawn to what is strange and mysterious." This is evident in how he frames the figures within uncanny landscapes. The emotional resonance of the artwork lies in its ability to evoke a sense of solitude amidst potential connection, questioning our expectations of meeting and understanding.