Description
Hugo Simberg, an outstanding exponent of Finn that permeated his work. The title of painting refers to Tunela, the kingdom of the dead in Finnish mythology, a recurring theme in Finnish national poetry, the "Kalevala". This distant and mysterious underworld serves as a backdrop for Simberg's composition.
The work presents three human figures: a young man with a blue robe, a winged figure dressed in red and a woman in a supplicating attitude, also invested with red clothes. These figures seem to be suspended in a moment of tragic transition, with the young erect under a dream sky that looks like a sea of pastel tones, and sustained by the winged figure. The sense of gravity is subtle, almost imperceptible, enhanced by the aqueous surface of the shore that appears on the horizon.
Simberg's chromatic palette is a unique delicacy. The sky, with its ethereal tones of blue and pink, harmonizes with the clothing of the characters, establishing a soft but clearly defined contrast with the earthly colors of the surrounding environment. The female figure, reflected in the water and kneeling next to the young man, introduces an emotional tension to the scene. The red clothes of both characters stand out vividly, suggesting an intense emotional connection and, perhaps, to an intimate relationship with the kingdom of the dead of Tunela.
The symbolism of painting is palpable, evoking feelings of transition, shadow and light. The winged figure can be interpreted as an angel, a psychopompo that guides souls beyond, or even as a personification of death itself, serene and inevitable. This frozen moment in time suggests a passage, a farewell, but also a tacit acceptance of destiny.
The work Youronelan Portilla aligns with other Simberg works, which often explores the fragility of human life and the proximity of death. In "The wounded angel" (Haavittunut Enkeli, 1903), Simberg plays with similar themes, presenting a mixture of innocence and darkness, using angelic figures in earthly and vulnerable contexts. The sensitivity and emotionality characteristics of symbolism find a perfect vehicle in their creations.
Simberg, influenced by European symbolism and its attraction to national mythology, offers with youron Portilla a meditative reflection on death, life and the unknown beyond. The subtlety of their pictorial technique and emotional depth in their compositions continue to resonate strong, inviting viewers to an introspective trip and an exploration of the depths of the human psyche and its oldest myths.
KUADROS ©, a famous paint on your wall.
Hand-made oil painting reproductions, with the quality of professional artists and the distinctive seal of KUADROS ©.
Art reproduction service with satisfaction guarantee. If you are not completely satisfied with the replica of your painting, we refund your money 100%.