Are our teachings, then, in vain? (1905)

The captivating artwork titled "Are our teachings, then, in vain?" by Udo Keppler, created in 1905, presents a poignant and thought-provoking visual commentary on the ironic disparities between the peaceful doctrines espoused by major religious teachings and the violent actions perpetuated in their names.In this striking painting, we see two ethereal figures, a Western Christian figure resembling Jesus Christ, and an Eastern figure, perhaps a Buddhist monk or a figure from other Eastern traditions, depicted floating on a cloud. They are shown shaking hands in a gesture of peace and mutual respect, underscoring the essential teachings of love, unity, and compassion shared across their religions.Beneath them, in stark contrast, are scenes of warfare and strife. Figures that appear to be soldiers are entrenched in the throes of battle, engaged actively in combat beneath a dark and tumultuous sky. The juxtaposition of the calm, serene expressions of the figures above with the chaotic violence below serves as a powerful critique of human hypocrisy and the recurrent failure to live up to religious ideals.Keppler's use of vivid imagery and symbolic elements reflects his mastery in conveying complex ideas through art, urging viewers to reflect on the often contradictory nature of human behavior in the context of religious and ethical teachings.