De Sphinx 1868 - 1928

"De Sphinx" is a charcoal drawing by Dutch symbolist artist Jan Toorop created between 1868 and 1928, now on display in the Rijksmuseum. The piece depicts a large, sphinx-like head, obscuring a group of nude figures below. The drawing's style reflects the Symbolist movement's emphasis on dream-like imagery, with ambiguous figures and suggestive forms. The central head, its features drawn with striking clarity against a hazy background, evokes a sense of mystery and the weight of ancient wisdom.