The artwork “Mourning” was created in 1910 by Umberto Boccioni during his time in Milan, Italy. This piece is emblematic of the Divisionism movement and is categorized as a symbolic painting. It evokes a deep sense of grief and emotional turmoil, reflective of the title.
“Mourning” is composed with a swirling mass of colors and forms that convey a palpable sense of despair. The predominant use of dark tones and the gestural quality of the brushwork create a somber atmosphere. The painting is dominated by figures that appear to be consumed by grief, with expressions and postures that communicate profound sadness and loss. The background and surrounding area seem to blur with the central figures, suggesting a chaotic and overwhelming emotional landscape.
There are bright, contrasting patches of color to one side of the composition, which may represent floral offerings or a burst of life amidst the predominant darkness, possibly symbolizing remembrance or the endurance of memory in the face of death. The dynamic brushstrokes and abstracted nature of the figures intensify the emotional experience of the artwork, emblematic of Boccioni’s interest in capturing movement and emotion on canvas, hallmarks of the Divisionism art movement which emphasized the separation of colors into individual strokes to create a more vibrant and luminous effect.
