8. Skeletons Fighting Over a Hanged Man / James Ensor (1891)

Skeletons Fighting Over a Hanged Man / James Ensor (1891)

Skeletons Fighting Over a Hanged Man / James Ensor (1891)

Oil on panel / H: 74 cm, W: 59 cm

■ Statement

"I'm not young enough to know everything."

■ Brief Biographical Information of Artist 

James Ensor (13 April 1860 – 19 November 1949) was born to an English father and Belgian mother, and lived in Ostend most of his life. As an early impressionist painter he was associated with the artist group Les XX, and is considered an innovator for 19th century art, and an influence on the 20th century surrealist painters. 

■ Background of the Art work

In his early years Ensor's paintings were considered scandalous, but he gained acceptance later in life. He is considered to have influenced Klee, amongst others.

James Ensor's most famous work, the Entry of Christ into Brussels, is a modern day depiction of Christ returning to a commercial world with advertising slogans for the socialist party and Coleman’s Mustard included in the piece. Painted in 1888 it now hangs in the Getty Art Museum in Malibu, California. 

■ Connection Between the Art and the Theme 

I think that this art work tries to convey the image of the death. I believe that people's imagination is unlimited.