Who painted Paolo and Francesca?

Paolo and Francesca was painted by Harald Slott-Møller in 1905.

Where can I see Paolo and Francesca?

Paolo and Francesca is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

What movement is Paolo and Francesca?

Paolo and Francesca is associated with Symbolism.

Artwork

Paolo and Francesca

Harald Slott-Møller , 1905

Paolo and Francesca is an oil painting by the Symbolist artist Harald Slott-Møller. It dates from 1905 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1905 by Danish artist Harald Slott-Møller, this oil painting portrays the ill‑fated lovers Paolo and Francesca from Dante’s Inferno. Executed within the Symbolist current, the work is part of the collection of Denmark’s National Gallery (Statens Museum for Kunst).

Subject & Meaning

The composition captures the intimate moment of the two figures locked in an embrace, their bodies illuminated against a shadowy backdrop. The woman leans her head on the man's shoulder, while flames flicker in the left background, evoking the torment of the lovers’ eternal punishment and the lingering sense of yearning that defines their story.

Technique & Style

Slott-Møller employs a stark contrast of light and dark, reminiscent of chiaroscuro, to heighten the emotional intensity. The dark robes and muted surroundings are pierced by the soft illumination on the couple, creating a dramatic focus that underscores the Symbolist aim of expressing inner states through visual metaphor.

History & Provenance

A founding member of the independent exhibition space Den Frie Udstilling, Slott-Møller produced this work during a period of active involvement with the group, alongside his wife, painter Agnes Slott-Møller. The painting entered the holdings of Statens Museum for Kunst, where it remains on view.

Artist & collection

Artist

Harald Slott-Møller

Harald Slott-Møller (Danish:; 17 August 1864 – 20 October 1937) was a Danish painter and ceramist. Together with his wife, the painter Agnes Slott-Møller, he was a founding member of Den Frie Udstilling (The Free Exhibition).