The painting "Kiss" depicts an intimate moment between two naked lovers whose faces merge into one, symbolizing their unity. In a dark interior, only a shadow of light penetrates through the window, emphasizing an atmosphere of emotional ambivalence. This work is an example of the femme fatale motif and depicts the dominance of the woman in the romantic relationship, where she controls and feeds her sexual desire.

Portrait of the Creator

  • Artist

    Edvard Munch

  • Date of birth and death

    12 December 1863 – 23 January 1944

  • Natinality

    Norwegian

  • Style

    Symbolism, Expressionism

  • Significant works

    The Scream, Madonna, The Sick Child

Information about the work

  • Year:

    1897

  • Execution technique:

    oil on canvas

  • Location:

    Munch Museum, Oslo, Norway

  • Theme:

    love, unity, intimacy, symbolism

Internal Narrative and Creative Framework

  • Inner Narrative

    The painting shows closeness yet loss of individuality in the relationship, emphasizing the ambivalent nature of love as both closeness and threat.

The key to interpreting the work

Interpret as part of the 'Frieze of Life' cycle, paying attention to the symbolism of connection and simultaneous loss of self in the romantic relationship.

See other works by this artist

Death in the sickroom

  • Artist: Edvard Munch
  • Year: 1893
Explore

The Scream

  • Artist: Edvard Munch
  • Year: 1893
Explore

Anxiety

  • Artist: Edvard Munch
  • Year: 1894
Explore

Ashes

  • Artist: Edvard Munch
  • Year: 1894
Explore

The Sick Child (later)

  • Artist: Edvard Munch
  • Year: 1907
Explore

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