The great judge 1898

"The Great Judge" (1898) by James Ensor (1860-1949) is a symbolic and unsettling work that exemplifies the artist's fascination with masks and the grotesque. The painting depicts a crowded scene of masked figures, some with contorted expressions, others with vacant stares, all gathered around a central figure whose skeletal face reveals a macabre sense of judgement. Ensor’s use of color and brushstrokes creates a vibrant but disorienting atmosphere, reflecting his own critiques of society and the absurdity of human behavior. This work captures the essence of Ensor's artistic vision, highlighting his unique ability to combine dark humor with a potent sense of social commentary.