Moloch (around 1923)

Karl Wiener’s painting “Moloch” from around 1923 presents a compelling and unsettling visual interpretation of a mythical creature. The painting features a dominant, monstrous face that fills the canvas, characterized by exaggerated, fearsome features that evoke a sense of dread and intensity. The creature's skin is depicted in dark, swirling tones of blue and green, which enhances its menacing aura.The eyes of the Moloch are particularly striking—large, bulbous, and colored with concentric circles of red, white, and yellow, creating a hypnotic and unyielding gaze. Below these glaring eyes lies a cavernous mouth, agape and lined with sharply pointed, yellow and red teeth, suggesting a ravenous appetite. The depiction of Moloch in this painting may symbolize greed or consumption, resonating with ancient narratives where Moloch was associated with sacrifice and destruction.Karl Wiener’s artistic style in this piece utilizes bold colors and fluid lines, infusing the painting with dynamic movement and emotional depth. The use of watercolor adds a textural quality that makes the image pop with vitality despite its potentially dark thematic elements.This painting is not just a visual representation but a powerful expression of the darker aspects of mythology and human emotions, captured vividly through Wiener’s unique artistic lens.