Death Chasing the Flock of Mortals 1896

“Death Chasing the Flock of Mortals,” a 1896 etching by James Ensor, is a striking depiction of death as a skeletal figure swinging through a bustling town square, his scythe held high as he stalks a crowd of terrified citizens. The chaotic composition, packed with figures and details, evokes a sense of impending doom, emphasizing the inevitability of death and the vulnerability of human existence. The work is a powerful example of Ensor's unique style, characterized by its grotesque imagery and social satire.