6 of History’s Scariest Paintings
These artworks will send a shiver down your spine, depicting unholy looks at hell or terrifying visions of war.
The power of fear has been vividly depicted by some of history’s greatest painters, with alarming visions drawn from mythology, religion, and horrifying real-world experiences.
A Chronological Look
Here’s a look at six of history’s scariest paintings, starting with the Dutch artist Hieronymus Bosch, known for his visions of the grotesque and terrifying.
The Garden of Earthly Delights
One of Bosch’s most famous works is the triptych painting The Garden of Earthly Delights, which forms a diptych of calm images when closed, but unfolds to reveal Bosch’s vision of terror.
- The left-hand panel portrays humans progressing from creation, evoking the Biblical story of Adam and Eve.
The power of fear has been vividly depicted by some of history’s greatest painters.
Author’s summary: Explore six terrifying paintings from history.