Castle (Castle Fairy Tale) 1909

Mikalojus Konstantinas Ciurlionis, a Lithuanian artist and composer, painted this fairy tale castle with oil on canvas. Ciurlionis lived in a time of cultural revival in Lithuania, as it sought to reclaim its national identity. The artist’s synesthetic perception, where he experienced a blending of senses, deeply influenced his work. Here, Ciurlionis seems to visualize music and myth. The spiraling road hints at a journey, not just of the body, but of the soul. Ciurlionis was interested in spiritual and philosophical themes. The castle, bathed in sunlight, seems to be an elevated state of being. It suggests a longing for transcendence, echoing the artist’s own search for meaning. He once said "I will create such paintings, that all my nation will be able to appreciate Lithuania". The painting invites us to reflect on our own personal myths and the cultural narratives that shape our identities, as well as the individual and collective quest for higher understanding.