Is The Nightmare under copyright?

No, this artwork is in the public domain.

What topics does The Nightmare explore?

nightmare, horror, sleep, demon, symbolism, subconscious, gothic, anxiety

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johann heinrich füssli
The Nightmare

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johann heinrich füssli

The Nightmare

Oil On Canvas
WallArt
Romanticism
1781
Early Modern
101.0 x 127.0 cm
Detroit Institute of Arts

Henry Fuseli’s "The Nightmare" – a haunting Romantic masterpiece! Explore this iconic oil painting’s dark symbolism & dramatic composition. A statement piece for art lovers.

Explore the haunting world of Henry Fuseli! Master of supernatural art & Shakespearean scenes. Influenced Blake & captivated audiences with 'The Nightmare'. #Fuseli #RomanticArt

Hand Made Oil Reproduction

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Description from JS

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You may enter your own dimensions to fit a specific frame or space. If your selected size does not match the original image's proportions, we will either crop the artwork or extend the painting with additional hand-painted elements. A digital mockup will be sent for your approval before production begins.
Please note that the on-screen preview does not reflect the actual cropping or extension. Only the mockup will accurately show the final composition.
While custom sizes are available, we recommend selecting a dimension from the predefined list to preserve the original proportions.

Customize My Artwork + $50

Examples of what can be changed: Replace face with customer photo; Add pet (e.g., replace cat with dog); Include hidden message in background; Change background landscape or elements.
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Elite Senior Artist (more detail, finesse, and extra production time) + $100

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Engraved bronze plaque displaying artist name and translated painting title. Size: 9x2 cm. + $10

Transparent acrylic plaque with black UV-engraved artwork informations and QR code. Size: 10x15 cm. + $30

Black acrylic plaque featuring white engraved text with artwork informations and QR code. Size: 10x15 cm. + $30

Engraved Bronze Plaque Details

This elegant plaque features the artist's name and the title of the artwork, finely engraved for a timeless presentation.

It is made from bronze with a refined, elegant finish. The text is precisely laser-engraved for a sharp and permanent result. Measuring 9x2 cm, the plaque is compact yet easy to read. It's built to be durable and scratch-resistant, offering a professional, museum-quality look. Mounting is simple thanks to the included adhesive backing.

Transparent Acrylic Plaque Details

The plaque includes essential engraved details such as the artist's name, the title of the artwork, the date it was created, the type of media used-like oil on canvas or watercolor-a brief description of the piece, and a QR code that links to the complete artwork information.

It is crafted from clear acrylic, offering a sleek, modern appearance. The text is UV-engraved in black to ensure strong visual contrast. With a size of 10x15 cm, it ensures optimal readability. It comes equipped with two metal hooks for secure wall mounting. The plaque is designed to be weather-resistant, making it suitable for various environments, and it includes interactive features that work seamlessly with smartphone scanning.

Black Acrylic Plaque Details

This elegant plaque includes engraved information such as the artist's name, the title of the artwork, the date it was created, the type of media used (like oil on canvas or watercolor), a short description of the artwork, and a QR code for quick access to more information.

The plaque itself is made from refined black acrylic with a premium finish. The text is laser-engraved in white for high contrast and readability. Its size is 10x15 cm, designed to be easy to read. It comes with two metal hooks for professional mounting. The design is sleek and fits any interior style. It is also weather-resistant and durable, with built-in digital integration for mobile compatibility.

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The Nightmare

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Elite Senior Artist

More detail, finesse, and extra production time

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Reproduction Frame

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ExclamationCircle For artworks or reproductions larger than 105 cm (approximately 41 inches) on any side, the frame will be shipped as a ready-to-assemble kit. This method ensures safe delivery and prevents damage during transport.

All solid wood bars are included, precisely cut to size.
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Assembly guide included; setup takes under 10 minutes with a standard screwdriver.

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Tightening the canvas on the assembled frame may require a canvas stretching plier tool, which is not included in the kit. This tool helps ensure proper tension and a professional finish.

Nameplate

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Protective Varnish

Glossy Varnish (enhances colors, protects against light/moisture)

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Customize My Artwork

Examples of what can be changed: Replace face with customer photo; Add pet (e.g., replace cat with dog); Include hidden message in background; Change background landscape or elements.

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Urgent

Worldwide Delivery () in 3/4 weeks instead of standard 5 weeks. (16 July). No compromise on quality.

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Worldwide Delivery () in 5 weeks. (23 July).

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Quick Facts

style: Dramatic, expressive, and surreal with strong chiaroscuro effects
movement: Romanticism
year: 1781
dimensions: 101 x 127 cm
medium: Oil on canvas
artist: Henry Fuseli (Johann Heinrich Füssli)
notable_elements:
- The contorted pose of the sleeping woman
- The demonic incubus crouching on her chest
- The spectral horse emerging from the curtains
- The use of chiaroscuro for dramatic lighting

Art Quiz

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:

Who is the artist of 'The Nightmare'?

Henry Fuseli

William Blake

Johannes Vermeer

Question 2:

In what year was 'The Nightmare' created?

1765

1781

1805

Question 3:

Which artistic movement is 'The Nightmare' associated with?

Renaissance

Romanticism

Impressionism

Question 4:

What technique does Fuseli use to create strong contrasts between light and dark in 'The Nightmare'?

Pointillism

Chiaroscuro

Impasto

Question 5:

What is the subject of 'The Nightmare'?

A woman experiencing a nightmare

A historical battle scene

A pastoral landscape

Artwork Description

The Nightmare: A Haunting Masterpiece of Romanticism

Henry Fuseli's "The Nightmare" is an iconic work that captures the essence of Gothic horror and Romanticism. Created in 1781, this oil painting is a profound exploration of the subconscious mind, blending dramatic composition with rich symbolism to evoke a sense of unease and fascination.

Subject and Composition

The central figure is a woman in deep sleep, her body contorted in an unnatural position that suggests distress or fear. Above her, a dark, shadowy incubus crouches on her chest, while the head of a menacing horse emerges from the shadows. The composition is dynamic and chaotic, with fluid lines and organic shapes creating a sense of movement and turmoil.

Style and Technique

Fuseli's style is characterized by its emphasis on emotion, drama, and the sublime. "The Nightmare" exemplifies Romanticism with its intense focus on the supernatural and the inner psyche. The use of chiaroscuro—strong contrasts between light and dark—adds depth and intensity to the scene. Fuseli's loose, expressive brushstrokes capture the movement and emotion, making the artwork feel alive and unsettling.

Historical Context

"The Nightmare" was first exhibited in 1782 at the Royal Academy of London, where it caused a sensation due to its overt sexuality and haunting imagery. It became Fuseli's first commercially successful work, inspiring numerous versions and engravings that circulated widely. The painting reflects the folkloric beliefs of the time, particularly Germanic tales about demons and witches that tormented sleepers.

Symbolism and Emotional Impact

The artwork is rich with symbolic elements that suggest a struggle between good and evil or the inner turmoil of the central figure. The incubus and the horse (mare) evoke the notion of nightmares, drawing from Scandinavian mythology where mara was a spirit sent to torment sleepers. The woman's pose, with her head hanging down and exposing her long neck, creates a sense of vulnerability and dread.

The emotional impact of "The Nightmare" is profound, conveying anxiety, fear, and the uncanny. Fuseli's ability to depict the subconscious mind makes this artwork a powerful exploration of human psychology, resonating with viewers even today.

Why Choose This Reproduction?

For art lovers, collectors, and interior designers seeking a statement piece that combines historical significance with dramatic visual appeal, "The Nightmare" is an excellent choice. Its rich colors, dynamic composition, and haunting imagery make it a captivating addition to any collection or space. A high-quality reproduction of this masterpiece will bring a sense of intrigue and sophistication to your home or office.

Artist Biography

early life and education

johann heinrich füssli, a swiss painter, draughtsman, and writer on art, was born on february 7, 1741, in zürich, switzerland. he was the second of 18 children to johann caspar füssli, a portrait painter. füssli received a classical education at the collegium carolinum in zürich.

artistic career

füssli's artistic career began with his move to london in 1764, where he met sir joshua reynolds, who encouraged him to devote himself to painting. he then spent eight years in italy, studying antique art and the works of titian, caravaggio, and mannerists.

supernatural experiences

füssli's paintings often depicted supernatural experiences, such as the nightmare, which showcased his unique style. he also created a series of paintings based on john milton's works, with the intention of forming a milton gallery comparable to boydell's shakespeare gallery.

notable works and associations

titania, bottom and the fairies, a painting showcasing füssli's use of fairy-tale scenes from shakespeare as motifs.
association with the royal academy, where he held the posts of professor of painting and keeper.
influence on younger british artists, including william blake.

museums and collections

füssli's works can be found in various museums, including:

kunsthaus zürich, switzerland, which features a wide range of füssli's paintings, including the nightmare.
albertina, vienna, austria, which houses füssli's watercolor piece, teiresias foretells the future to odysseus.

legacy

füssli's style had a considerable influence on many younger british artists, and his supernatural themes continue to fascinate art lovers. his legacy can be explored further through his numerous works, which can be found in various museums and collections. recommended reading:

titania, bottom and the fairies by johann heinrich füssli
henry fuseli - wikipedia

view more of füssli's works on BuyPopArt: johann heinrich füssli | 12 artworks

johann heinrich füssli

1741 - 1825 , Switzerland

Quick Facts

Artistic Movement Or Style: Romanticism, Neoclassicism
Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['William Blake']
Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
- Titian
- Caravaggio
Date Of Birth: Feb 7, 1741
Date Of Death: 1825
Full Name: Johann Heinrich Füssli
Nationality: Swiss
Notable Artworks:
- The Nightmare
- Titania, Bottom & Fairies
Place Of Birth: Zurich, Switzerland

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