Massacre of the Innocents

Massacre of the Innocents by Cyprian Majerník

Massacre of the Innocents by Cyprian Majerník, painted in 1942, is a powerful expressionist work depicting the biblical scene of King Herod's massacre of male infants in Bethlehem, a subject often explored in art history to convey themes of suffering and human tragedy. Majerník, a Slovak painter known for his emotional depth and dramatic use of color, portrays this harrowing event with intense dynamism and stark contrasts. In this painting, the figures are rendered in a raw, almost distorted manner, capturing the anguish and terror of the mothers trying to protect their children. The background is dark and turbulent, heightening the sense of chaos and fear, while the figures are illuminated with sharp, almost jarring light, which emphasizes the brutality of the scene.

Majerník, whose work was heavily influenced by the turmoil and violence of World War II, often used biblical and historical themes to reflect contemporary anxieties and human suffering. "Massacre of the Innocents" serves as both a direct commentary on the horrors of war and a broader meditation on the innocence lost during times of conflict. The painting is a significant piece within his oeuvre, showcasing his ability to merge personal experience with universal themes of pain and resilience. Today, Majerník’s works are recognized for their emotional intensity and are housed in major Slovak art collections, such as the Slovak National Gallery in Bratislava, where "Massacre of the Innocents" continues to resonate as a poignant reflection on the human condition.

• Title: Massacre of the Innocents
• Artist: Cyprian Majerník
• Date: 1942
• Medium: Oil on canvas
• Style: Expressionism
• Current Location: Slovak National Gallery, Bratislava
• Subject: A depiction of the biblical massacre of male infants in Bethlehem, reflecting themes of suffering and human tragedy.