The Massacre of the Innocents 1 1984

Bruno Canova's 1984 painting *The Massacre of the Innocents 1* is a powerful and haunting depiction of the biblical story. The painting portrays a field of scattered, fragmented figures, representing the slain infants, against a dark, somber background. A lone, towering pole, symbolizing the cruelty and violence of the act, dominates the composition. Canova's signature use of stark contrasts and detailed textures, coupled with the ominous nighttime setting, creates an emotionally charged atmosphere that invites contemplation of the tragedy.