10 of the World’s Creepiest Paintings
The Face of War by Salvador Dali, 1940
This painting by Salvador Dali is one of the most iconic and unsettling images of the 20th century. The painting depicts a face composed of a skull, a gun, and a hand grenade, all of which are set against a black background. The painting is meant to be a commentary on the horrors of war and the fragility of life.
Saturn Devouring his Son by Goya, 1819–1823
This painting by Spanish artist Francisco Goya is one of the most unsettling images of the 19th century. The painting depicts the Greek myth of Saturn devouring his son, a metaphor for the Spanish monarchy’s tyranny and oppression. The painting is a powerful reminder of the brutality of power and the consequences of unchecked authority.
Medusa by Caravaggio, 1597
This painting by Italian artist Caravaggio is one of the most famous and disturbing images of the 16th century. The painting depicts the mythological figure of Medusa, whose gaze turns anyone who looks at her to stone. The painting is a powerful reminder of the dangers of unchecked power and the consequences of vanity.
Hell by Hans Memling, 1485
This painting by German artist Hans Memling is one of the most disturbing images of the 15th century. The painting depicts a vision of Hell, filled with tortured souls and demonic creatures. The painting is a powerful reminder of the consequences of sin and the ultimate fate of the damned.
Study of the Heads of Torture Victims by Théodore Géricault, 1814
This painting by French artist Théodore Géricault is one of the most unsettling images of the 19th century. The painting depicts a study of the heads of torture victims, a powerful reminder of the brutality of war and the horrors of violence.
The Judgment of Cambyses by Gerard David, 1498/1499
This painting by Flemish artist Gerard David is one of the most disturbing images of the 15th century. The painting depicts the biblical story of the judgment of Cambyses, a powerful reminder of the consequences of pride and the ultimate power of God.