Astolf Riding Away with the Head of Orill 1873

Arnold Böcklin's "Astolf Riding Away with the Head of Orill" from 1873 depicts a knight, Astolf, riding away with the head of a vanquished foe, Orill, atop a rearing white horse. The scene is set against a dramatic backdrop of a blood-red sunset, casting an eerie and mysterious mood. The painting’s subject matter is taken from Italian epic poetry and exemplifies Böcklin’s signature style, blending elements of Symbolism and Romanticism. The painting’s haunting imagery explores themes of death, war, and triumph.