The Artist

Who was Hieronymus Bosch?

Hieronymus Bosch (c. 1450–1516) was a Dutch painter from ’s-Hertogenbosch, a thriving city in the Duchy of Brabant, part of modern-day Netherlands. Renowned for his surreal, dreamlike landscapes and allegorical compositions, Bosch’s works delve deeply into themes of morality, sin, and human folly. He is often considered a pioneer of surrealism, blending intricate symbolism with fantastical imagery that defies the conventions of his time.

Bosch’s art is defined by its surreal, otherworldly quality. His compositions are filled with bizarre creatures, hybrid beings, and allegorical scenes that reflect the tension between virtue and vice. Bosch’s ability to fuse the mundane with the fantastical created a visual language that continues to captivate audiences, offering interpretations of the human condition that are as relevant today as they were in the 1500s.

Iconic Works in Surrealium’s Collection

The Garden of Earthly Delights (c. 1490–1510)
This monumental triptych is Bosch’s most celebrated masterpiece. It explores humanity’s journey from innocence in Eden to indulgence in earthly pleasures, culminating in the torments of Hell. Surrealium’s collection includes prints that showcase the intricate details of all three panels, from the serene paradise to the chaotic revelry and haunting damnation.

The Haywain (c. 1512–1516)
In this allegorical triptych, Bosch critiques humanity’s obsession with materialism. The central panel, dominated by a towering haystack, symbolizes the fleeting nature of worldly pursuits. Surrealium’s reproductions capture the moral depth and visual complexity of this iconic work.

The Last Judgment (c. 1504–1508)
This apocalyptic triptych vividly depicts divine judgment and the eternal struggle between salvation and damnation. Surrealium’s prints highlight the grotesque creatures and tortured souls that populate the hellish right panel, preserving the dramatic intensity of Bosch’s vision.

Death and the Miser (c. 1490–1510)
A profound meditation on mortality, this painting portrays a miser confronted by Death, surrounded by allegorical symbols of greed and redemption. Surrealium’s reproductions reveal the intricate interplay of light, shadow, and symbolism that define this work.

The Temptation of St. Anthony (c. 1501–1506)
This triptych immerses viewers in the spiritual trials of St. Anthony, featuring surreal landscapes and bizarre creatures that represent the saint’s struggles against temptation. Surrealium’s prints showcase the rich symbolism and layered narratives of this extraordinary work.

Created in a fortress

Surrealium houses "The Guard"—a 1600s guard post at Kastellet Fortress, surrounded by the Nordic Sea in Vaxholm, Sweden. This historic space is home to Surrealium's jewelry atelier, showroom, and art studio. Nearby, on a secluded island, lies Surrealium’s artist retreat, featuring a music studio, outdoor atelier, and tranquil spaces for creative exploration.

Hieronymus Bosch (c. 1450–1516)

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