Masaccio’s “Expulsion from the Garden of Eden” is a fresco found in the Brancacci Chapel located in Florence. The painting showcases the moment when Adam and Eve were forced out of the Garden of Eden after disobeying God’s command. The painting was part of a larger cycle painted by Masaccio, Masolino, and other artists during the 1420s.
Adam and Eve are shown in the painting to be troubled and filled with guilt, being chased away from the garden by a threatening angel. One can observe Masaccio’s expertise in color, perspective, and form in this painting. The gestures of Adam and Eve showcase gender stereotypes of shame, displaying the traditional concept around that time. The fresco boasts Masaccio’s artistry and is considered highly evocative of the religious story it depicts.
Masaccio’s “Expulsion from the Garden of Eden” is considered one of his most well-known works, showcasing his artistic ability and techniques. Being part of the cycle painted in the early 15th century’s Brancacci Chapel, it occupies a central point of the chapel wall. The painting depicts strong emotions being displayed through Adam and Eve’s eyes while they are being driven out of the Garden of Eden. The angel in the painting is displayed to be leaping out of the garden, indicating that there is no way back. The fresco highlights Masaccio’s skill in using light, shadow, and proportion, revealing his ability to offer depth and life to the painting.
