Money-Back Guarantee · 100 days Free Worldwide Delivery
646,446artworks 53,409artists 5,406museums 32languages

Top list · Expressionism

Famous Expressionism Paintings: The Top 100

1888 – 1973

The most famous Expressionism paintings are Edvard Munch's The Scream (1893, Nasjonalgalleriet), George Grosz's The Pillars of Society (1926, Staatliche Museen zu Berlin), Wassily Kandinsky's Composition VII (1913, Tretyakov Gallery), August Macke's Woman in a Green Jacket (1913, Museum Ludwig) and Edvard Munch's Madonna (1894, Munch Museum). Below, all 100 of them — painted from 1888 to 1973 by 33 artists — with their date, their size and the museum that keeps them.

The Scream by Edvard Munch, 1893, Nasjonalgalleriet — famous Expressionism painting
No. 1 · Edvard MunchThe Scream1893 · Nasjonalgalleriet, Oslo
100paintings
33painters listed · James Ensor – Francis Bacon
52museums, 29 cities
4held at the Nasjonalgalleriet

Top 100

Famous Expressionism paintings, No. 1 to No. 100

Artist, date, original size, museum and the price of a reproduction for every painting.

  1. The Scream by Edvard Munch, 1893, Nasjonalgalleriet
    1

    Edvard MunchExpressionism

    The Scream

    91 × 73 cm1893Oil and temperaNasjonalgalleriet, Oslo

    A gaunt, androgynous figure dominates the foreground, hands pressed against its cheeks, mouth agape in what many perceive as a silent cry. This creates a sense of instability, pulling the viewer into a tilted, distorted perspective. There is a certain heaviness to the application, where colors are manipulated to create movement.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  2. The Pillars of Society by George Grosz, 1926, Staatliche Museen zu Berlin
    2

    108 × 200 cm1926Oil on canvasStaatliche Museen zu Berlin

    Created during the Weimar Republic, "The Pillars of Society" reflects the social and political unrest of the time. Grosz, a key figure in Berlin Dada and New Objectivity, used his art to critique society, politics, and the rise of fascism.

    Detailsnewspapers and printed materialsurban architectural elementsexaggerated mask-like faces

    Details

  3. Composition VII by Wassily Kandinsky, 1913, Tretyakov Gallery
    3

    200 × 300 cm1913Oil on canvasTretyakov Gallery, Moscow

    Emerging from the fertile artistic landscape of early 20th-century Europe, this painting reflects Kandinsky’s growing rejection of traditional subject matter. It foreshadows the complete abandonment of recognizable imagery that would characterize much of 20th-century art.

    Detailsvibrant colorslayering of formsswirling shapes

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  4. Woman in a Green Jacket by August Macke, 1913, Museum Ludwig
    4

    44 × 44 cm1913Oil on canvasMuseum Ludwig, Cologne

    Macke was a pivotal member of “Der Blaue Reiter” (The Blue Rider), a groundbreaking group of artists who rejected traditional artistic conventions in favor of emotional expression and spiritual content.

    Oil painting from $345 Print — from $42

  5. Madonna by Edvard Munch, 1894, Munch Museum
    5

    Edvard MunchExpressionism

    Madonna

    90 × 68 cm1894Lithograph (implied from description)Munch Museum, Oslo

    Munch eschews traditional artistic conventions, employing swirling lines, distorted forms, and a deliberately jarring color palette to convey inner turmoil. The work likely utilizes oil or tempera on cardboard, contributing to its textured surface and sense of immediacy.

    Detailsemotional turmoilthemes of motherhoodloss

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  6. The Large Blue Horses by Franz Marc, 1911, Walker Art Center
    6

    Franz MarcGerman Expressionism

    The Large Blue Horses

    104 × 181 cm1911Oil on canvasWalker Art Center, Minneapolis

    Marc's use of bright primary colors —deep blues, vivid reds, and lively yellows—creates a harmonious yet dynamic composition. "The Large Blue Horses" is one of Marc's earliest major works featuring animals, a subject that would become central to his oeuvre.

    Detailsdynamic background with swirling lines and vibrant colorsthick impasto technique creating a textured surface

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  7. Melancholy (Laura) by Edvard Munch, 1894, Nasjonalgalleriet
    7

    81 × 101 cm1894Oil on canvasNasjonalgalleriet, Oslo

    The scene depicts a solitary figure seated on a shoreline, lost in contemplation. This artwork is a cornerstone example of Expressionism, prioritizing emotional experience over realistic representation. The figure’s dark clothing (black and deep purple) further isolates them visually.

    Detailsshorelineturbulent waterdistorted forms

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  8. The Self-Seers II (Death and Man) by Egon Schiele, 1911, Leopold Museum
    8

    81 × 80 cm1911Oil on canvasLeopold Museum, Vienna

    Created in Vienna during a period of societal upheaval and artistic innovation, this artwork reflects the anxieties of a rapidly changing world. Schiele was part of a generation challenging academic conventions, seeking new ways to express inner experience.

    Detailshaunting expressionskeletal handdistorted forms

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  9. Three Studies for Figures at the Base of a Crucifixion by Francis Bacon, 1944
    9

    1944Oil on sundeala fibre board

    The figures aren’t portraits; they are archetypes of pain, stripped bare and exposed. Created during the final years of World War II, this work reflects the pervasive atmosphere of trauma and uncertainty gripping Europe.

    Details

  10. Reclining Nude with Blue Cushion by Amedeo Modigliani, 1916
    10

    60.1 × 92.1 cm1916Oil on canvas

    The nude form itself has a long history in art, often representing beauty, fertility, or vulnerability. The blue cushion could symbolize comfort, fleeting peace, or perhaps even a sense of melancholy solitude.

    Detailselongated formsabstract backgroundblue cushion

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  11. The Bride of the Wind by Oskar Kokoschka, 1914, Kunstmuseum
    11

    180.4 × 220.2 cm1914Oil on canvasKunstmuseum, Basel

    The figure is rendered with bold, sweeping strokes that suggest both flesh and fabric, seamlessly blending into the turbulent background. Created in 1914, this piece exemplifies the powerful emotional language of Expressionism.

    Detailssymbolic undertonesvigorous brushworkcontrasting color palette

    Details

  12. Four Trees by Egon Schiele, 1917, Austrian Gallery Belvedere
    12

    Egon SchieleExpressionism

    Four Trees

    110 × 141 cm1917Oil on canvasAustrian Gallery Belvedere, Vienna

    Vienna at the turn of the century was ablaze with artistic innovation. Egon Schiele’s influence extends far beyond the confines of Vienna, establishing him as a pivotal figure in modern art —particularly Expressionism.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  13. The Family by Egon Schiele, 1917, Austrian Gallery Belvedere
    13

    Egon SchieleExpressionism

    The Family

    152 × 162 cm1917Oil on canvasAustrian Gallery Belvedere, Vienna

    In The Family, this manifests through jagged, angular lines that seem to vibrate with tension. Created during the height of World War I, The Family reflects the pervasive anxieties and uncertainties of a Europe consumed by conflict.

    Oil painting from $220 Print — from $42

  14. Landscape with Yellow Birds by Paul Klee, 1923
    14

    1923Oil painting

    Paul Klee’s Landscape with Yellow Birds is a quintessential example of the artist’s unique blend of expressionism and surrealism. For a comprehensive understanding of 20th-century Western painting, refer to 20th-Century Western Painting.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  15. Child with Dove by Pablo Picasso, 1901, University of Iowa
    15

    73 × 54 cm1901Oil on canvasUniversity of Iowa

    The painting demonstrates early experimentation with flattened perspective and fragmented forms – hallmarks of what would later become Cubism. This approach fundamentally altered how artists depicted reality, paving the way for numerous subsequent art movements, including Futurism, Suprematism, and Constructivism.

    Detailsdoveball

    Details

  16. The Judgement of Paris by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner
    16

    Oil on canvas

    This palette creates a sense of warmth and intensity, enhancing the emotional impact of the scene. As a co-founder of the artists group Die Brücke ("The Bridge"), Kirchner was at the forefront of the Expressionist movement in 20th-century art.

    Detailsabstract background with contrasting cool tonesthick, visible brushstrokes and impasto techniquetriangular formation of figures

    Oil painting from $220 Print — from $42

  17. Triptych by Francis Bacon, 1973
    17

    Francis BaconExpressionism

    Triptych

    1973Oil on canvas

    Bacon’s style is immediately recognizable for its raw energy and expressive brushwork. triptych, may -june, 1973 a exemplifies this perfectly. Painted in 1973, this triptych is inextricably linked to Bacon’s personal tragedy.

    Detailsisolationintrospectiondoorways as symbolic transitions

    Details

  18. Dance (II) by Henri Matisse, 1910, Hermitage Museum
    18

    Henri MatisseFauvist Expressionism

    Dance (II)

    260 × 391 cm1910Oil on canvasHermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg

    When one first encounters this work, it is impossible not to be swept up in the rhythmic cadence of the figures. To understand the impact of Dance (II), one must look closely at Matisse’s revolutionary technique.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  19. Mother with Two Children by Egon Schiele, 1917, Austrian Gallery Belvedere
    19

    150 × 160 cm1917Oil on canvasAustrian Gallery Belvedere, Vienna

    The composition is deceptively simple yet powerfully effective. Schiele arranges the mother and her two children within a tightly-knit triangular structure, lending a sense of stability that belies the underlying emotional tension.

    Detailsmuted color palette with vibrant accentstriangular compositionelongated figures

    Oil painting from $220 Print — from $42

  20. Death and the Masks by James Ensor, 1897, La Boverie
    20

    78.5 × 100 cm1897Oil on canvasLa Boverie, Liège

    James Ensor was a Belgian artist who played a significant role in the development of Expressionism. The style of James Ensor was influenced by various art movements, including Fauvism and Symbolism.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  21. The White Cat (also known as Tom Cat on Yellow Pillow) by Franz Marc, 1912, Staatliche Galerie Moritzburg
    21

    50 × 60 cm1912Oil on panelStaatliche Galerie Moritzburg, Germany

    This technique, characteristic of Expressionism, prioritizes feeling over precise depiction. These contrasting colors – cool white and warm yellows/reds – create visual tension and enhance the overall impact. The red couch, often associated with passion and energy, provides a grounding force, subtly contrasting with the cat’s serene nature.

    Detailswhite cat reclining on a yellow pillow against a red couch

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  22. Triptych, May-June 1973 by Francis Bacon, 1973
    22

    1973Oil on canvas

    The painting’s commercial success – it sold for $6.3 million in 1989, setting a record price for a Bacon at the time – underscores its significance within art history.

    Details

  23. The Iron Bridge (View of Frankfurt) by Max Beckmann, 1922, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen
    23

    42 × 25 cm1922Oil on canvasKunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen, Duesseldorf

    Max Beckmann's "The Iron Bridge (View of Frankfurt)" captures the pulsating energy of an industrial cityscape. Painted in the aftermath of World War I, "The Iron Bridge (View of Frankfurt)" reflects Beckmann's altered vision of humanity and urban life.

    Detailssuspension bridge as central focususe of strong diagonal lines for depth and perspective

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  24. Near the bed of death (fever) by Edvard Munch, 1915, Munch Museum
    24

    60 × 80 cm1915Oil on canvasMunch Museum, Oslo

    It reflects a broader cultural preoccupation with illness, loss, and the fragility of life that permeated early 20th-century Europe. Rejecting the objective representation favored by earlier movements, Munch prioritized conveying subjective emotional experience.

    Detailsemotional intensityswirling backgrounddistorted figures

    Oil painting from $220 Print — from $42

  25. Orange and Red on Red by Mark Rothko
    25

    Mark RothkoColor Field Expressionism

    Orange and Red on Red

    Oil on canvas

    The canvas breathes with layers of luminous pigment, where shades of orange and red intermingle and subtly clash against a dominant crimson ground. Mark Rothko’s influence on modern art is undeniable.

    Details

  26. Strong Dream by Paul Klee, 1929
    26

    Paul KleeExpressionism

    Strong Dream

    21 × 26 cm1929Gouache

    Paul Klee (1879-1940), born in Switzerland but deeply connected to the German art scene, was a truly unique figure. Key Works by Paul Klee: View onto a Square, 1912 – A foundational work demonstrating Klee’s early experimentation with geometric abstraction.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  27. Mujer y perro cara a la luna by Joan Miró, 1936, Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
    27

    Joan MiróSurrealist Expressionism

    Mujer y perro cara a la luna

    1936Oil on canvasMuseo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía

    Born in Barcelona in 1893, Miró’s formative years were steeped in the vibrant atmosphere of Gaudí’s architectural legacy. A woman’s figure—a recurring motif in Miró's oeuvre—is positioned alongside a dog’s head, which rests upon her shoulder.

    Details

  28. Self-Portrait with Bonito by Frida Kahlo, 1941
    28

    Frida KahloSurrealist Expressionism

    Self-Portrait with Bonito

    1941Oil on canvas

    Painted during a period marked by significant physical and emotional turmoil – including a devastating bus accident in 1925 – ‘Self-Portrait with Bonito’ offers a poignant glimpse into Frida Kahlo's inner landscape.

    Detailsmustachebonito

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  29. Fruit Harvest in a Mountain Orchard by Marianne von Werefkin, 1912, Berlinische Galerie
    29

    1912Oil on panelBerlinische Galerie

    From the outset, young Marianna demonstrated an exceptional aptitude for visual representation, commencing her artistic pursuits at fourteen following a debilitating illness. Notably, Repin recognized Werefkin's prodigious talent early on, securing her place amongst Russia’s most celebrated artists.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  30. All Saints Day I by Wassily Kandinsky, 1911
    30

    50 × 64 cm1911Oil paint

    In 1911, he co-founded the influential artist group Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider) with Franz Marc, which sought to express spiritual truths through art. Experience the transformative power of "All Saints Day I" by Wassily Kandinsky.

    Detailsmusical instrumentsflowersgeometric shapes

    Oil painting from $270 Print — from $42

  31. Portrait of Wally by Egon Schiele, 1912, Leopold Museum
    31

    327 × 398 cm1912Oil on panelLeopold Museum, Vienna

    The subject is Walburga “Wally” Neuzil, Schiele’s lover and frequent muse. Vienna in 1912 was a hotbed of artistic and intellectual ferment. Schiele, alongside Gustav Klimt, challenged the conservative norms of the Viennese art establishment.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  32. The Dance of Life by Edvard Munch, 1899, Nasjonalgalleriet
    32

    49 × 75 cm1899Oil on canvasNasjonalgalleriet, Oslo

    The artwork bursts with bold, contrasting colors that create an immediate visual impact. Created during a period of intense personal and artistic exploration, "The Dance of Life" reflects Munch's fascination with the human condition.

    Oil painting from $295 Print — from $42

  33. The Hat Shop by August Macke, 1913, Museum Folkwang
    33

    August MackeExpressionism

    The Hat Shop

    1913Oil on canvasMuseum Folkwang, Essen

    The artist’s focus on the act of choosing accessories highlights themes of personal style, identity, and the fleeting moments of daily routine. Blending elements of Impressionism and modernist abstraction, this piece exemplifies early 20th-century artistic innovation.

    Detailsvibrant colorsexpressive brushstrokessimplified forms

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  34. Figure with Meat by Francis Bacon, 1954, Edwin A. Ulrich Museum
    34

    1954Oil on canvasEdwin A. Ulrich Museum

    The painting’s power lies not in beauty or harmony, but in its raw, unflinching depiction of vulnerability, fear, and the unsettling proximity of life and death. Bacon’s technique is as crucial to the painting’s impact as its subject matter.

    Detailswingsraw meat

    Details

  35. Grazing Horses IV by Franz Marc, 1911
    35

    Franz MarcGerman Expressionism

    Grazing Horses IV

    121 × 183 cm1911Oil on canvas

    Franz Marc's "Grazing Horses IV" (also known as "The Red Horses") is a vibrant and dynamic painting that epitomizes the spirit of German Expressionism. The composition is balanced yet dynamic, with the three horses arranged in a triangular formation.

    Detailsexpressive brushworkbold colorsdynamic composition

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  36. Forest Painting by Hans Emmenegger, 1936
    36

    61 × 41 cm1936Oil on canvas

    The Forest Painting by Hans Emmenegger emerges from the canvas as a quiet moment captured in 1936. This oil on canvas work presents a specific slice of the natural world, held within a frame measuring 61 x 41 cm.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  37. Skeletons Warming Themselves by James Ensor, 1889, Kimbell Art Museum
    37

    James EnsorSymbolist Expressionism

    Skeletons Warming Themselves

    74 × 60 cm1889Oil on canvasKimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth

    The setting itself is deeply rooted in Ensor's personal history. Furthermore, Skeletons Warming Themselves aligns itself with the tradition of the “Dance of Death” prints, popular during the medieval and Renaissance periods.

    Detailsskeletonsstovemasks

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  38. The Falling Angel by Marc Chagall, 1947, Kunstmuseum
    38

    Marc ChagallExpressionism/Surrealism

    The Falling Angel

    148 × 189 cm1947Oil or tempera on canvasKunstmuseum, Basel

    Created in 1947, this work exemplifies a powerful blend of expressionism and surrealism. The artist, Marc Chagall, was deeply influenced by his Belarusian Jewish heritage, Eastern European folklore, and the tumultuous events of the 20th century.

    Detailssymbolic imagerydynamic compositionallegorical figures

    Details

  39. Adrienne (Woman with Bangs) by Amedeo Modigliani, 1917, National Gallery of Art
    39

    55.3 × 38.1 cm1917OilNational Gallery of Art, Washington

    The year 1917 situates the work amidst the tumult of World War I, a time when artists sought new ways to express inner truths and emotional resilience.

    Detailsexpressive brushworktextured backgroundsimplified

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  40. Legend of the Nile by Paul Klee, 1937, Kunstmuseum Bern
    40

    1937Oil on canvasKunstmuseum Bern

    Inspired by the legendary Nile, the piece weaves a narrative of water, life, and spirituality through abstract motifs and symbolic forms.

    Detailslayered texturesgeometric shapessymbolic motifs

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  41. Ashes by Edvard Munch, 1894, National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design
    41

    Edvard MunchExpressionism

    Ashes

    120 × 141 cm1894Oil on canvasNational Museum of Art, Architecture and Design, Oslo

    "Ashes" (1894) is a hauntingly beautiful artwork by Norwegian master Edvard Munch, renowned for his deeply emotional and psychologically charged paintings. This piece exemplifies Munch's distinctive style, blending elements of Symbolism and Expressionism to create a scene that is both visually striking and emotionally resonant. Created in 1894, "Ashes" reflects Munch's preoccupation with themes of love, fear, death, melancholia, and anxiety.

    Detailsdense forest backgroundstanding woman with long red hair and white dressprone figure on the ground

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  42. Military Policeman arresting the spirit by Yannis Tsarouchis, 1965
    42

    1965

    Details

  43. La tristesse du roi by Henri Matisse, 1907, Musée National d'Art Moderne
    43

    Henri MatisseFauvist Expressionism

    La tristesse du roi

    1907Gouache on paperMusée National d'Art Moderne

    Matisse’s Fauvist approach prioritizes expressive color over realistic depiction. “La Tristesse du Roi” emerged during a period of artistic ferment in France—the Fauvist movement spearheaded by Matisse and André Derain.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  44. Great Scene of Agony by Max Beckmann, 1906, Bavarian State Painting Collections
    44

    141 × 131 cm1906Oil on canvasBavarian State Painting Collections, Munich

    A third, spectral figure stands partially obscured, adding to the scene’s unsettling atmosphere. The composition is deliberately unbalanced; the triangular arrangement feels precarious, mirroring the emotional instability at the heart of the work.

    Detailsimpasto techniqueambiguous scenedistorted figures

    Oil painting from $195 Print — from $42

  45. View of Murnau with train and castel by Wassily Kandinsky, 1909, Stadtische Galerie in Lenbach
    45

    36 × 49 cm1909OilStadtische Galerie in Lenbach, Munich

    This use of complementary colors creates a sense of vibrancy and tension, enhancing the overall impact. During this period, Kandinsky was deeply influenced by the landscapes around Murnau, where he lived with his partner, artist Gabriele Münter.

    Detailssilhouetted figuresvibrant sunset colorsdynamic composition

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  46. Self-portrait with Model by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, 1910, Hamburger Kunsthalle
    46

    150.4 × 100 cm1910Oil on canvasHamburger Kunsthalle

    The composition is a masterclass in calculated discomfort. Emerging from the shadows of World War I, Kirchner’s work reflects the widespread societal upheaval and the fragmentation of identity that defined early 20th-century Europe.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  47. Dans mon pays by Marc Chagall, 1943, Galleria Civica di Arte Moderna e Contemporanea Torino
    47

    Marc ChagallSurrealist Expressionism

    Dans mon pays

    1943Oil on canvasGalleria Civica di Arte Moderna e Contemporanea Torino, Turin

    Created during the Second World War, “Dans Mon Pays” speaks directly to the trauma of exile and the yearning for home. Chagall's departure from Vitebsk followed the escalating persecution faced by Jewish communities across Europe under Nazi rule.

    Details

  48. Nudo rosso by Amedeo Modigliani, 1917, Nakanoshima Museum of Art
    48

    60 × 92 cm1917Oil on canvasNakanoshima Museum of Art, Osaka

    Notably, Modigliani's stylistic choices align with broader trends in Expressionism, mirroring the movement’s preoccupation with conveying inner emotion through distorted forms and vibrant hues.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  49. Self-portrait of a 'Degenerate Artist' by Oskar Kokoschka, 1937
    49

    110 × 85 cm1937Oil on canvas

    Bold, visible brushstrokes dominate the canvas, creating a textured surface that vibrates with energy. In 1937, the Nazis staged the infamous “Degenerate Art” exhibition in Munich, showcasing works they deemed subversive and immoral.

    Detailsbackgrounddepiction of alienationintense color palette

    Details

  50. Women by Paul Klee, 1921, Aichi Prefectural Museum of Art
    50

    Paul KleeExpressionism

    Women

    52 × 41 cm1921Watercolor/inkAichi Prefectural Museum of Art, Nagoya

    It's a piece that resists easy interpretation, prompting contemplation rather than offering immediate answers – a hallmark of Klee’s artistic philosophy and his engagement with Expressionism and Primitivism.

    Detailsfragmented forms

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  51. Le Dent Du Midi from Leysin, Switzerland by Sir William Rothenstein, 1930
    51

    1930Oil on canvas

    The mountain peaks of Switzerland rise to meet the eye in Le Dent Du Midi From Leysin, Switzerland. The work dates to about 1930, a period when the artist's hand moved with a specific, seasoned intent.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  52. Self-Portrait with Masks by James Ensor, 1899, Philadelphia Museum of Art
    52

    120 × 80 cm1899Oil on canvasPhiladelphia Museum of Art

    The composition centers on Ensor himself, depicted with a contemplative gaze, holding a palette and brush, symbolizing his identity as a creator.

    Detailsfacesmasks

    Oil painting from $220 Print — from $42

  53. La tertulia del café de Pombo by José Gutiérrez Solana
    53

    Oil on canvas

    A group of men occupies a dining table within a bar or restaurant setting, caught in a moment of shared conversation. Several bottles rest upon the table, suggesting the presence of alcoholic beverages and the informal nature of the meeting.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  54. Italian Wild Flowers by Cedric Morris, 1922
    54

    39 × 30 cm1922Oil paint

    The scene feels immediate, as if the flowers were gathered only moments ago and placed before the viewer. Red poppies reach upward alongside delicate blue forget-me-nots and clusters of purple hyacinths. The work dates to about 1922.

    Details

  55. Mystical Head: Meditation by Alexej von Jawlensky, 1918, Lenbachhaus
    55

    40.1 × 30.8 cm1918OilLenbachhaus, Munich

    Created in 1918 by the renowned Russian artist Alexej von Jawlensky, this piece exemplifies the modernist movement, blending elements of Expressionism and Fauvism. The closed eyes and tranquil expression symbolize meditation, inner peace, and a connection to higher consciousness.

    Detailsexpressive linessymbolic abstractionbold colors

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  56. Retrato de Juanita Obrador by Joan Miró, 1918, Art Institute of Chicago
    56

    Joan MiróSurrealist Expressionism

    Retrato de Juanita Obrador

    1918Oil on canvasArt Institute of Chicago

    Miró’s distinctive style, firmly rooted in the principles of Surrealism, is powerfully evident here. It’s not simply a functional object; it feels like a key to unlocking a hidden narrative.

    Detailsvaseclock

    Details

  57. The old blind guitarist by Pablo Picasso, 1903, Art Institute of Chicago
    57

    121 × 82 cm1903Oil on canvasArt Institute of Chicago

    The early 20th century witnessed significant shifts in artistic expression. The guitar itself dominates the composition, symbolizing not only his livelihood but also his sole source of comfort and solace.

    Details

  58. Passion (Jealousy) by Edvard Munch, 1895, Bergen Kunstmuseum
    58

    48 × 58 cm1895Oil on canvasBergen Kunstmuseum

    The artwork presents a dreamlike scene featuring three central figures arranged in a triangular formation. "Jealousy" is a powerful and enigmatic piece that adds a touch of drama and sophistication to any space.

    Detailsvibrant red dress of the central figuredreamlike quality and emotional intensityearthy tones contrasted with vibrant splashes of red

    Oil painting from $195 Print — from $42

  59. Bathing Girls with Town in the Background by August Macke, 1913, Staatsgalerie Moderner Kunst
    59

    100 × 80 cm1913Staatsgalerie Moderner Kunst, Munich

    This painting is a prime example of how Macke integrated influences from French Impressionism, Fauvism, and Orphism into his own unique style. The dense foliage and vibrant colors in the painting may symbolize fertility, growth, or the vitality of nature.

    Detailsexpressive linesdynamic compositionbold colors

    Oil painting from $295 Print — from $42

  60. Death and the Maiden by Egon Schiele, 1915, Austrian Gallery Belvedere
    60

    1915Oil on canvasAustrian Gallery Belvedere, Vienna

    Schiele's use of color in "Death and the Maiden" is striking. Created during World War I, "Death and the Maiden" reflects Schiele's personal experiences and the broader societal anxieties of the time.

    Detailschaotic background suggesting a turbulent environmentcontrast between dark and light figuresvibrant colors on the lighter figure's garment

    Oil painting from $195 Print — from $42

  61. Jeanne Hebuterne with Hat and Necklace by Amedeo Modigliani, 1917
    61

    164 × 137 cm1917Oil on canvas

    This work exemplifies Modigliani's signature style – a graceful elongation of form, inspired by African sculpture and Renaissance portraiture. Departing from traditional representation, he simplifies features, particularly the face and neck, creating an elegant austerity. It reflects Paris' vibrant artistic climate during a period of radical experimentation and change. The composition’s balance between warm and cool tones further amplifies this emotional duality.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  62. New Angel by Paul Klee, 1920, Israel Museum
    62

    Paul KleeCubist Expressionism

    New Angel

    31.8 × 24.2 cm1920OilIsrael Museum, Jerusalem

    Created in 1920, New Angel by Paul Klee offers a glimpse into the artist's singular vision. Comedians' Handbill, produced in 1938, features thicker lines and more generalized forms, marking a departure from the precision of his Bauhaus years.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  63. Portrait of Isabel Rawsthorne Standing in Soho by Francis Bacon, 1967, Neue Nationalgalerie
    63

    1967Oil on canvasNeue Nationalgalerie, Berlin

    Bacon’s fascination with Freud's psychoanalytic theories fueled his desire to depict inner turmoil—a stylistic hallmark shared with Surrealists like René Magritte and Salvador Dalí. The inclusion of dogs—particularly one positioned prominently near Rawsthorne’s feet—adds another layer of symbolic complexity.

    Details

  64. Space Concept ,Waiting by Lucio Fontana, 1965, Sezon Museum of Modern Art
    64

    Lucio FontanaSpatial Expressionism

    Space Concept ,Waiting

    1965Canvas & paintSezon Museum of Modern Art, Karuizawa

    Born in Rosario, Argentina, in 1899, Fontana embarked on a lifelong pursuit of artistic innovation, initially honing his skills in sculpture before gravitating towards the groundbreaking canvases that would cement his legacy.

    Details

  65. Tibet stronghold (Potala) by Nicholas Roerich, 1939
    65

    91 × 152 cm1939Tempera

    In 1928, he painted the Stupa near Sharugen, focusing on a sacred Buddhist structure atop a rocky hill. Even as the years pass, his vision remains fixed on these heights, as seen in the 1940 depiction of Tibet.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  66. The Man of Sorrows by James Ensor, 1891, Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten
    66

    James EnsorSymbolic Expressionism

    The Man of Sorrows

    20 × 15.5 cm1891Oil on panelKoninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten, Antwerp

    Ensor’s style is undeniably theatrical, characterized by a jarring blend of realism and grotesque distortion. Ensor’s artistic sensibilities were deeply influenced by Symbolist ideas, which prioritized subjective experience and psychological exploration over objective observation.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  67. Slow Swirl at the Edge of the Sea by Mark Rothko, 1944, MoMA
    67

    1944Oil on canvasMoMA, New York City

    Rothko’s formative years in Latvia exposed him to both Jewish traditions and the political unrest of the era. The move to Portland fostered a sense of displacement and shaped his understanding of cultural identity.

    Details

  68. Para David Fernández Miró by Joan Miró, 1964
    68

    Joan MiróSurrealist Expressionism

    Para David Fernández Miró

    1964

    To encounter Joan Miró's “Para David Fernández Miró 1” is to step through a portal into the very architecture of the subconscious.

    Details

  69. Moses with the Burning Bush by Marc Chagall, 1966
    69

    195 × 312 cm1966Oil on canvas

    Thick impasto—the application of paint in textured layers—further enhances the visual impact, lending physicality to the ethereal figures and swirling landscapes. “Moses with the Burning Bush” resides firmly within the broader context of Modern Art movements like Naive Art (Primitivism).

    Details

  70. Marios Varvoglis by Amedeo Modigliani, 1920, MOMA - Museum of Modern Art
    70

    1920Pencil on paperMOMA - Museum of Modern Art, New York City

    This restrained approach underscores the importance of line quality and density in conveying emotion and form. Influenced by Nietzsche, Baudelaire, and Lautréamont—artists who championed subjectivity and challenged conventional aesthetic ideals—Modigliani forged his own path as an avant-garde sculptor and painter.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  71. White Black Arch by Wassily Kandinsky
    71

    Oil painting

    Traditional artistic conventions were increasingly questioned as artists sought new ways to express the complexities of their time. Guggenheim Museum in New York City proudly display his masterpieces, ensuring that his legacy endures for generations to come.

    Detailslineschairscircles

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  72. The Child and Death by Edvard Munch, 1899, Kunsthalle Bremen
    72

    100 × 90 cm1899Kunsthalle Bremen

    The gesture of covering one's ears is a recurring motif in Munch’s oeuvre, most famously seen in The Scream. However, while the figure in The Scream unleashes a primal cry, this child remains silent, paralyzed by fear and grief.

    Detailsthree Male Heads)double canvas with hidden painting underneath (Girl

    Oil painting from $195 Print — from $42

  73. Thinking About Death by Frida Kahlo, 1943, Museo Dolores Olmedo
    73

    Frida KahloSurrealist Expressionism

    Thinking About Death

    45 × 37 cm1943MasoniteMuseo Dolores Olmedo, Mexico City

    The brushstrokes are bold and expressive, conveying a palpable sense of urgency and vulnerability. The woman's posture—seated rigidly, almost immobile—underscores the paralysis brought on by pain and illness, yet simultaneously conveys an unwavering determination to persevere.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  74. Untitled by Joseph Stella
    74

    Joseph StellaExpressionism

    Untitled

    This central botanical form is surrounded by a dense arrangement of smaller trees and various plant life. These botanical elements create a thick, layered landscape of green and multicolored vegetation.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  75. The honeymooners by Lyonel Feininger
    75

    Oil on canvas

    Feininger’s practice was marked by a deep engagement with modernism. He remained active in his creative pursuits until his death in 1956. The interplay of these figures and the structured backdrop creates a lively, nostalgic atmosphere within the streetscape.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  76. Berlin Street by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, 1913, Neue Galerie
    76

    Ernst Ludwig KirchnerGerman Expressionism

    Berlin Street

    1913Oil on canvasNeue Galerie, NYC

    The painting’s diagonal thrust, created by the receding street and the arrangement of figures, immediately draws the eye into its chaotic core. The energetic, fragmented lines define the figures’ forms while simultaneously contributing to a sense of visual chaos.

    Detailsdistorted figures

    Oil painting from $220 Print — from $42

  77. Bust of Nude Woman by Pablo Picasso, 1906, Art Institute of Chicago
    77

    1906Oil on canvasArt Institute of Chicago

    Created during a period of immense artistic ferment – marked by the rise of Fauvism and the burgeoning avant-garde – the painting reflects Picasso’s restless experimentation with color, perspective, and the very nature of visual language.

    Detailsdistorted forms

    Details

  78. Entry of Christ Into Brussels by James Ensor, 1888, Getty Center
    78

    253 × 431 cm1888OilGetty Center, Los Angeles

    This juxtaposition of the sacred and the profane creates a powerful commentary on society's indifference to spiritual matters. Despite its controversial reception, the painting is now considered a precursor to Expressionism and a significant influence on modern art.

    DetailsChrist figure almost hidden in the center

    Oil painting from $720 Print — from $42

  79. Pregnant Woman and Death by Egon Schiele, 1911, National Gallery
    79

    100 × 100 cm1911Oil on canvasNational Gallery, Prague

    The background depicts an alleyway setting, further emphasizing feelings of isolation and despair. “Pregnant Woman and Death” is firmly rooted in the Expressionist movement. The early 20th century witnessed significant social anxieties, including concerns about population growth and mortality rates.

    Oil painting from $195 Print — from $42

  80. The Poetess by Joan Miró, 1940
    80

    Joan MiróSurrealist Expressionism

    The Poetess

    1940Gouache

    Joan Miró, a renowned Spanish artist, is celebrated for his contributions to the Surrealist movement. "The Poetess" is characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, typical of Miró's surrealist approach.

    Details

  81. Three Studies of Lucian Freud by Francis Bacon, 1969
    81

    1969Oil on canvas

    Francis Bacon's "Three Studies of Lucian Freud, right" is a powerful triptych that captures the essence of psychological introspection through bold lines, chaotic brushstrokes, and a muted color palette. Bacon's friendship with Lucian Freud, another prominent figure in the art world, adds a personal dimension to the piece. Each piece offers a glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.

    Details

  82. Interior with Egyptian Curtain by Henri Matisse, 1948, The Phillips Collection
    82

    116 × 89 cm1948Oil on canvasThe Phillips Collection, Washington, D.C.

    Furthermore, delving into the world of Art Deco —a movement that shared Matisse’s fascination with decorative patterns and geometric abstraction —offers valuable insights into the broader artistic landscape of the early 20th century.

    Detailscurtainorangeswindow

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  83. Columbine by Max Beckmann, 1950, Saint Louis Art Museum
    83

    Max BeckmannExpressionism

    Columbine

    381 × 500 cm1950Oil on canvasSaint Louis Art Museum

    The painting exemplifies Beckmann's signature style, characterized by distorted figures, rich symbolism, and emotional intensity. The central subject of "Columbine" is a masked female figure engaged in an enigmatic activity involving cards or play.

    Detailsmasked figurearchitectural elements in the backgroundbold, unnatural colors

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  84. Animal Legend by Franz Marc, 1912
    84

    Franz MarcGerman Expressionism

    Animal Legend

    34 × 24 cm1912Oil on canvas

    The visual language of this work is defined by its uncompromising honesty and raw emotional intensity.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  85. Selbstbildnis als Kranker by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, 1917, Staatsgalerie Moderner Kunst
    85

    57 × 66 cm1917Oil on canvasStaatsgalerie Moderner Kunst, Munich

    To fully appreciate "Selbstbildnis als Kranker," it's crucial to understand the historical context surrounding its creation. In 1914, Kirchner volunteered for military service during World War I but soon experienced a severe mental breakdown and was discharged.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  86. On Two Banks by Marc Chagall, 1956
    86

    Marc ChagallNaive Expressionism

    On Two Banks

    148 × 102 cm1956Oil on canvas

    Chagall employs bold brushstrokes, eschewing meticulous detail in favor of expressive marks that convey feeling rather than observation. The figures walking together represent companionship and shared experience—themes central to Chagall’s exploration of human relationships.

    Details

  87. Portrait of Jeanne Hébuterne by Amedeo Modigliani, 1919, Metropolitan Museum of Art
    87

    1919Oil on canvasMetropolitan Museum of Art, New York

    Painted in 1919, this portrait emerged during a period of significant artistic experimentation following World War I. Tragically, both Modigliani and Jeanne died within days of each other in 1920, adding another layer of poignancy to this already moving portrait.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  88. Moonlight by Edvard Munch, 1895, Nasjonalgalleriet
    88

    Edvard MunchExpressionism

    Moonlight

    93 × 110 cm1895Oil on canvasNasjonalgalleriet, Oslo

    The composition of "Moonlight" is striking in its simplicity yet remarkably effective. This duality—the peaceful surface concealing a deeper emotional complexity—is characteristic of Munch’s style and reflects his own personal struggles and the influence of Symbolism.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  89. The Rights of Man by René Magritte, 1947, Musées Royaux des Beaux-Arts
    89

    René MagritteSurrealist Expressionism

    The Rights of Man

    1947Oil on canvasMusées Royaux des Beaux-Arts

    To understand "The Rights of Man," it's essential to consider René Magritte’s personal history. Born in Lessines, Belgium, in 1898, he experienced a deeply formative event at the age of thirteen: the suicide of his mother.

    Detailspipefire hydrant

    Details

  90. Woman at Table in Strong Light by Richard Diebenkorn
    90

    Details

  91. Taranto Harbour, Swordfish from 'Illustrious'... by Charles David Cobb, 1940
    91

    44 × 75 cm1940Oil on canvas

    The oil on canvas titled Taranto Harbour, Swordfish from 'Illustrious' Cripple the Italian Fleet, 11 November 1940 captures a specific moment of naval conflict. It was painted by Charles David Cobb, an artist born in 1921 who lived until 2014.

    Details

  92. The Pit by George Grosz, 1946
    92

    George GroszExpressionism

    The Pit

    153 × 94 cm1946Oil paint

    Grosz's style in "The Pit" is highly expressive and abstract, with influences from movements like Expressionism and Surrealism. Grosz, a key figure in the Berlin Dada and New Objectivity movements, was known for his satirical critiques of society and politics.

    Detailsreligious or mythological imageryrichly textured and deeply layered compositionbold colors, dynamic lines, thick textures

    Details

  93. In the Blue by Wassily Kandinsky, 1925, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen
    93

    80 × 110 cm1925Oil on canvasKunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen, Duesseldorf

    Kandinsky’s approach to composition is revolutionary for its time. Throughout history, blue has been associated with spirituality, the heavens, and the infinite. In Kandinsky’s work, it represents a realm beyond the material world—a space for contemplation and spiritual awakening.

    Detailsgeometric shapescolor

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  94. Villaggio con viottoli blu by Ernst Ludwig Kirchner
    94

    Oil on canvas

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  95. Autumn Trees by Egon Schiele, 1911
    95

    Egon SchieleExpressionism

    Autumn Trees

    79 × 80 cm1911Oil on canvas

    "Autumn Trees" presents a stylized landscape dominated by three slender trees silhouetted against a hazy background. The bare branches could symbolize vulnerability or transition, reflecting Schiele’s exploration of human fragility and emotional turmoil.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  96. The Bad Doctors by James Ensor, 1892, Fin-de-Siècle Museum
    96

    50 × 61 cm1892Oil on panelFin-de-Siècle Museum, Brussels

    To behold this work is to experience the raw power of early Expressionism. Most haunting are the multiple clocks scattered throughout the room—reminders of time's relentless, indifferent march toward death.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  97. Cree (casein on cardboard) 2 by Edvard Munch, 1893, National Museum of Art, Architecture and Design
    97

    91 × 73.5 cm1893TemperaNational Museum of Art, Architecture and Design, Oslo

    This casein-on-cardboard painting showcases the artist's mastery of capturing raw emotion, making it a significant work in the Expressionist movement. For more information on Edvard Munch's life and work, visit his page on AllPaintingsStore.com.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  98. Young Woman in a Shirt by Amedeo Modigliani, 1918, Albertina
    98

    100 × 65 cm1918Oil on canvasAlbertina, Vienna

    This softness is balanced by the artist's deliberate use of fluid, organic lines that define the subject without the rigidity of traditional realism. To look upon this painting is to witness a brilliant fusion of diverse artistic heritages.

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  99. Tyrol by Franz Marc, 1914, Staatsgalerie Moderner Kunst
    99

    Franz MarcExpressionism

    Tyrol

    135 × 144 cm1914Oil on canvasStaatsgalerie Moderner Kunst, Munich

    Marc's style in "Tyrol" blends elements of Expressionism, Cubism, and Futurism. Franz Marc (1880–1916) was a pioneering figure in German Expressionism and co-founder of the influential artist group Der Blaue Reiter (The Blue Rider).

    Detailsfragmented compositionbold colorsdynamic shapes

    Oil painting from $170 Print — from $42

  100. The Concert by Marc Chagall, 1957
    100

    Marc ChagallNaive Expressionism

    The Concert

    140 × 239 cm1957Oil on canvas

    Measuring an impressive 140 x 239 cm, the work commands attention through its sheer scale and its ability to transport the observer into a dreamlike realm.

    Details

Index

Famous Expressionism paintings by sub-movement

Locations

Where the famous Expressionism paintings are

100 paintings: 8 in Oslo, 4 at the Nasjonalgalleriet.

University of Iowa1

University of Iowa

Artists

Most represented Expressionism painters

Portrait of Edvard Munch

Edvard Munch

1863–1944 · Norway · 10

Norwegian Expressionist of soul painting and rhythmic lines, using distorted forms to capture the tremors of anxiety and existential dread.

1. The Scream, 5. Madonna, 7. Melancholy (Laura), 24. Near the bed of death (fever), 32. The Dance of Life, 41. Ashes, 58. Passion (Jealousy), 72. The Child and Death, 88. Moonlight, 97. Cree (casein on cardboard) 2

Portrait of Egon Schiele

Egon Schiele

1890–1918 · Austria · 8

Austrian Expressionist known for raw, contorted figures and nervous, expressive line work that explores sexuality and the human condition.

8. The Self-Seers II (Death and Man), 12. Four Trees, 13. The Family, 19. Mother with Two Children, 31. Portrait of Wally, 60. Death and the Maiden, 79. Pregnant Woman and Death, 95. Autumn Trees

Portrait of Amedeo Modigliani

Amedeo Modigliani

1884–1920 · Italy · 7

Italian Expressionist known for soulful portraits with elongated faces and almond-shaped eyes, capturing the essence of the human spirit.

10. Reclining Nude with Blue Cushion, 39. Adrienne (Woman with Bangs), 48. Nudo rosso, 61. Jeanne Hebuterne with Hat and Necklace, 70. Marios Varvoglis, 87. Portrait of Jeanne Hébuterne, 98. Young Woman in a Shirt

Portrait of Francis Bacon

Francis Bacon

1909–1992 · Ireland · 6

British Expressionist known for visceral, distorted figures trapped within geometric space-frames and the raw sensation of the human scream.

9. Three Studies for Figures at the Base of a Crucifixion, 17. Triptych, 22. Triptych, May-June 1973, 34. Figure with Meat, 63. Portrait of Isabel Rawsthorne Standing in Soho, 81. Three Studies of Lucian Freud

Portrait of James Ensor

James Ensor

1860–1949 · Belgium · 6

Belgian Expressionist known for grotesque carnival masks and chaotic, brightly colored processions of skeletons and religious figures.

20. Death and the Masks, 37. Skeletons Warming Themselves, 52. Self-Portrait with Masks, 66. The Man of Sorrows, 78. Entry of Christ Into Brussels, 96. The Bad Doctors

Portrait of Wassily Kandinsky

Wassily Kandinsky

1866–1944 · Russia · 5

Russian pioneer of abstraction and the Blue Rider movement, known for spiritual, colorful forms and the musical interplay of shapes and lines.

3. Composition VII, 30. All Saints Day I, 45. View of Murnau with train and castel, 71. White Black Arch, 93. In the Blue

Portrait of Franz Marc

Franz Marc

1880–1916 · Germany · 5

German Expressionist known for symbolic animals and a spiritual use of color, using blue for masculinity and yellow for feminine joy.

6. The Large Blue Horses, 21. The White Cat (also known as Tom Cat on Yellow Pillow), 35. Grazing Horses IV, 84. Animal Legend, 99. Tyrol

+26more painters represented Top Expressionism Artists Ranked list

FAQ

Famous Expressionism paintings — FAQ

Point at a question for the answer.

What are the top 10 Expressionism paintings?

Can I own a copy of a famous Expressionism painting?

Yes: 70 of the 100 can be ordered as a hand-painted oil reproduction, from $170, and 70 as a canvas print, from $42.

What materials did Expressionism painters use?

84 of the 100 are oil paintings, 4 use tempera and 0 are frescoes; 5 are painted on wood and 67 on canvas.

How was this list of Expressionism paintings ranked?

By recognition: Wikipedia articles in the most languages (Wikidata sitelinks), our manual ranking and page visits. Several records of one painting count once; details, copies and studies are excluded.

Order

70 paintings available as oil reproductions

70 of the 100 are in stock as hand-painted oil reproductions, from $170. Trade and volume orders welcome.

The Scream by Edvard MunchThe Pillars of Society by George GroszComposition VII by Wassily KandinskyWoman in a Green Jacket by August MackeMadonna by Edvard Munch

Shop Expressionism paintings

Ranking method

Which paintings: all Expressionism paintings in our catalogue. In which order: the best-known first — counted by Wikipedia articles in different languages, our own ranking and page visits. Each painting once; no details, copies or studies.

Other movements

Paintings by period