Strand met maan 1908

Léon Spilliaert created this image of a beach at night using ink, gouache and crayon. It’s one of a series of nocturnal seascapes he made around Ostend, Belgium, where he lived. Spilliaert was working in the early 20th century, a period of rapid industrialization and social change. His paintings often evoke feelings of isolation and unease, reflecting a broader sense of uncertainty that many Europeans felt at the time. The painting’s stark contrast between the bright moon and the dark sea creates a powerful emotional effect. The building and figures on the beach add to the sense of mystery. Art historians use many resources to understand this painting better. These include Spilliaert’s letters and diaries, as well as contemporary accounts of life in Ostend. By understanding the social and cultural context in which Spilliaert created this painting, we can better appreciate its meaning and significance.