1. Salome / Franz Von Stuck (1906)

Salome / Franz Von Stuck (1906)

Salome / Franz Von Stuck (1906)

Oil on canvas / H: 115.5 cm, W: 62.5 cm

■ Statement

"A formal analysis would describe the soft painterly style, the use of fluid lines accented by the strong vivid diagonal of her earings all creating the illusion of wild ecstatic dance. The dark limited palette of the background focusing the eye on her pale fleshy nudity and then on the menacing dark skinned learing slave bringing the head of the saint."

■ Brief Biographical Information of Artist 

Franz Stuck was born in February 24, 1863 in Bavaria, at Tettenweis. From an early age, he showed great interest and passion for art - drawing and caricature. In 1878, he moved to Munich where he began his education in art. And from 1881 to 1885, he attended Munich Academy where he polished and further improved his skills in art. His first exhibition was in 1889, in which he received a gold medal for The Guardian of Paradise. Franz was a member of the International Society of Sculptors, Painters and Gravers. He passed away in Munich on August 30, 1928.

■ Background of the Art work

Salome was inspired by the Gospel story in Mark 6:21-29. The women in the artwork is Salome, daughter of Herodias. John the Baptist criticized King Herod for illegally marrying Herodias. In return, John the Baptist was imprisoned. But, Herodias was not satisfied and commanded Salome to perform a charming birthday dance for her stepfather (King Herod), in return making him promise Salome of any wish she wished for. Salome asked for John's severed head on a platter.

■ Connection Between the Art and the Theme 

This piece of art connects to my theme because a women's charm, beauty, and sexuality can be used to persuade certain decisions.