SCYTHE IN SURREALIST PAINTINGS

The symbolism in surrealism is very rich. Every symbol has multiple meanings, and the viewer is encouraged to make their own interpretation. Among the symbols found in the paintings of Mariusz Lewandowski, the scythe takes a prominent place. Traditionally, it is seen as a symbol of the end, of passing. It serves as a reminder of mortality. The scythe is associated with the figure of Death, who comes to reap the harvest—the harvest of human lives. In surrealist art, this symbol often appears in reference to scenes of passing, questions about the meaning of life, or to illustrate the fear of the unknown. Surrealist artists also frequently depict the scythe in more unexpected contexts, blurring the lines between life and death.

However, the scythe does not have to symbolize the end or death. As a tool once used for harvesting, it can become a symbol of the end of one cycle and the beginning of a new one (also unknown), a symbol of hope for something better, a symbol of change—just as the seasons change after the harvest. In surrealism, this kind of symbolism is used to emphasize ideas related to transformation and spiritual evolution. At times, it symbolizes uncertainty.

The use of the scythe, or a figure holding a scythe, in paintings also allows surrealist artists to introduce an element of uncertainty into their works, evoking feelings of unease or danger. Placed in unexpected, surreal contexts, it can create a sense of absurdity, symbolizing the unpredictability of human fate.

Another reason for using the symbol of the scythe in surrealist paintings is the desire to divide reality, either physically or metaphorically. It can represent a boundary between different states of consciousness, between wakefulness and dreams, consciousness and the subconscious. It may symbolize the separation between the material world and the spiritual one. Other symbols of "passage," such as doors, bridges, or ladders, are used similarly.

Like other symbols in surrealism, the scythe has multiple meanings, allowing for multidimensional interpretation. The way it is understood strongly depends on the context in which it is used, as well as on the viewer’s current feelings and thoughts. Such ambiguous symbols encourage the viewer to reflect more deeply on the nature and meaning of existence, their own fears, and those that may have inspired the artist to use them.

 

See more symbols in Mariusz Lewandowski's surreal paintings at https://www.lewandowski.art/en_US/c/Fine-art-prints/13 or on the Instagram profile https://www.instagram.com/mariusz_lewandowskiart/