Guerro #9 (1893-1895)
by Valére Bernard
French, 1860-1936
Valère Bernard, also known as Valérie Bernard, was a Provençal painter and poet who expressed himself in the Occitan language. His graphic work is significant, and he is known for his contributions to symbolism, often exploring dark and macabre themes with an anti-war message. In his series of engravings titled “Guerro,” created between 1893 and 1895, he presents variations around the theme of death, inspired by Francisco Goya.
The specific piece “Guerro #9” is a poignant representation of death, which is a recurring subject in Bernard’s work. The depiction of Death with a female body rowing a boat across water with a corpse is a powerful visual metaphor. It could symbolize the journey to the afterlife, reflecting the inevitability of death and the solitude that accompanies it. The use of a female figure for Death adds a layer of complexity, perhaps suggesting the nurturing aspect of nature or the final embrace of a motherly figure.
Bernard’s work, especially the “Guerro” series, is noted for its intense graphic quality and its ability to convey profound messages through stark, symbolic imagery. His art continues to resonate, as it speaks to universal themes of life, death, and the human condition.
Matte Poster
• Printed with Dye/Pigment Reactive Ink on Archival Matte Paper
• Shipped in Heavy Duty Poster Tube
• Heavy weight (210 gsm), thick base, and an instant-dry coating that resists fingerprints and smudging