Kiss by Edvard Munch

An atmosphere of mysterious and fusion passion permeates this famous intimate composition which redefines the classic iconography of the loving embrace at the beginning of the century. The painter represents the dissolution of individual identities within the couple under the stylistic direction of the famous creator Edvard Munch. This major work, entitled specifically “Kiss”, suspends time to capture a moment of total devotion and isolation from the outside world.

Two dark figures, a man and a woman closely entwined, stand upright near a window in a darkened corner of the room. Their faces literally melt into one another into a single undifferentiated mass, symbolizing an absolute and carnal union. The lovers are draped in long garments with tones of dark brown and black that blend with the shadows of the interior. On the left, a translucent white curtain allows a soft exterior clarity to filter through, illuminating the edge of the window frame. The vertical and tight composition reinforces the feeling of secrecy and deep intimacy.

The painter’s traditional know-how shines through in this subtle treatment of chiaroscuro and blurred contours that unite the bodies. His unique technique makes it possible to materialize the psychological fusion with a sobriety of means that accentuates the poetry and plastic strength of the embrace.