Lots Weib (around 1924)

Titled "Lots Weib" by artist Karl Wiener, circa 1924, this compelling image delves into the biblical story of Lot and his wife during the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The painting captures a moment of high drama and emotion, depicted through vibrant and chaotic visual elements.In the foreground, two figures are seen fleeing from the catastrophic event, their poses suggesting urgency and fear. These figures, presumably Lot and one of his daughters, panel against black clouds swirling ominously above. Notably, a solitary pillar of salt stands poignantly to the left, representing Lot's wife who, according to the biblical narrative, turned back to look at the burning city and was transformed.The city itself, shown in the background, is engulfed in flames that spiral into the dark sky in streaks of red, orange, and yellow, evoking the wrath and devastation wrought upon it. The use of intense colors and dynamic swirls heightens the emotional impact of the scene, drawing viewers into the chaos and despair of the moment.Karl Wiener’s use of pastels brings a soft yet intense texture to the scene, highlighting the contrast between the dark doomed city and vivid divine intervention. His depiction not only reflects the biblical story but also serves as a powerful symbol of regret and the irreversible consequences of one's actions.