Charles Winter [1822-1900 ] American : The Witches Sabbath , 1881

$4,800

The Witches Sabbath 1881

Charles Winter(1822-1900)

American

0/C 30 × 36

Antique frame

The painting has several features that point to the witch’s sabbath,

Chaotic and Unrestrained Atmosphere: The scene is filled with lively and wild gestures, indicating a sense of abandon that is often associated with witch gatherings or pagan celebrations.

Demonic and Supernatural Elements: The demon-like figure in the background and the presence of an angelic or otherworldly creature hovering above add to the supernatural theme. Witch’s sabbath scenes often include demons or devilish figures as central or background characters.

Witches or Women in Ritualistic Behavior:

The women in the scene appear to be surrounding and undressing another woman in a way that suggests a ritualistic act, possibly a symbolic stripping of innocence or initiation into a coven. The pointed hat worn by one of the women is also a classic witch-like accessory.

Unusual Characters and Costumes: The inclusion of strange, masked, or partially dressed figures points to a celebration or ritual with symbolic meaning. Witch’s sabbath depictions frequently showcase people in unusual attire or with props associated with witchcraft.

Dark and Gloomy Setting: The background’s dark, cavernous space with arched openings evokes a feeling of secrecy and confinement, settings typical of witch’s sabbath imagery, which often occurs in remote or hidden places like forests, caves, or haunted ruins.

These The Woman represents innocence being stripped from her to become the 13th witch of the coven.