The Parca and the Angel of Death | Gustave Moreau | 1890

Gustave Moreau’s The Parca and the Angel of Death (1890) presents mortality through an encounter between classical mythology and Christian imagery. A shrouded Fate leads the dark horse of the Angel of Death across a desolate landscape. The mounted figure’s wings, halo and sword establish its supernatural presence, while the narrow, upright composition compresses the procession into a sombre and imposing silhouette. Dark masses of paint are interrupted by glowing reddish tones, making the setting appear charged with an unnatural light.

Painted following the death of Moreau’s companion Alexandrine Dureux, the work gives its allegorical subject a personal dimension of mourning. The Parca evokes the powers that govern the length of human life, while the angel introduces a different tradition of death and judgement. Moreau brings these figures together without reducing them to a straightforward story; the disturbed landscape and expressive handling of paint make grief itself part of the painting’s atmosphere.

Print: 

A premium quality heavyweight (200gsm) fine art print material with a smooth, clean finish. This museum quality paper is extremely consistent and works perfectly with large, full colour graphics or illustrations. The matte finish emphasises different highlights and tones in the source artworks; helping to create stunning works of art.

- All prints feature a 0.25 inch white border to ensure space for framing. 

Our Eco Credentials Include:

• FSC approved or sustainably sourced paper
• Printed using water based inks
• Local fulfilment reduces carbon emissions
• Contains no plastic

Sizes:

12 x 18 Inches = 30.5 cm x 45.7 cm

16 x 24 Inches = 40.6 cm x 61.0 cm