Die fünf Sinne;Das Gefühl 1872 - 1879

Hans Makart painted "Die fünf Sinne; Das Gefühl" showing a nude woman carrying a child through a verdant forest scene. The visual experience is one of softness and shadow where the figures emerge from a dark background. This is achieved through the masterful use of light that caresses their skin, contrasting sharply with the dense, indistinct foliage around them. Makart’s focus on sensuality and emotional expression can be decoded through semiotics. The woman’s nudity, set against the backdrop of the wild forest, suggests a return to nature, challenging the rigid moral codes. The child she carries is a symbol of innocence and new beginnings. Together they may challenge the conventional notions of beauty and virtue. Ultimately, this painting invites us to question and expand our understanding of what constitutes "feeling". It reflects the ongoing dialogue between the visual arts and the human experience.