“The Dead Bodies Carried Away,” created by James Tissot between approximately 1896 and 1902, is a religious painting executed in gouache on board, showcasing the Symbolism art movement. The relatively small dimensions of the artwork are 20.7 by 27 centimeters.
The artwork portrays a sober and poignant scene wherein two men, dressed in white garments accented with embroidery, carry lifeless bodies over their shoulders. The background reveals a barren, undulating landscape with other figures observing or walking in the distance. The meticulous detail in the attire and the lifeless forms underscore the somber theme, conveying a profound sense of loss and stillness. Tissot’s delicate and precise technique enhances the emotional gravity of the depicted scene, encapsulating moments of solemn ritual within a timeless, serene setting.
