War | Arnold Böcklin | 1896

Arnold Böcklin’s War (1896) presents an apocalyptic procession moving above a settlement that appears dangerously exposed. Mounted figures, including the unmistakable presence of death, dominate the narrow vertical composition. Horses, weapons and streaming drapery overlap in a forceful rhythm, while the buildings beneath them shrink into an ordered but fragile human world.

The painting’s impact depends on the separation between these two realms. The riders occupy a space of violent movement and exaggerated scale; the town below remains small, detailed and vulnerable. Dark earth colours are interrupted by pale flesh, bone and fiery accents, intensifying the sense of an approaching calamity. Drawing on the tradition of the apocalyptic horsemen, Böcklin gives conflict an allegorical form. War appears as a force that passes over ordinary life, indifferent to the structures and securities people have built.

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