Existence, wooden bed panel 1894

Georges Lacombe crafted ‘Existence,’ a wooden bed panel, an intimate object that invites contemplation. Lacombe belonged to the Nabis, a group of Post-Impressionist avant-garde artists who embraced symbolism and spirituality, rejecting the rigid naturalism of their time. The bed panel, while functional, transcends mere utility; its carved surface teems with organic forms that suggest growth, renewal, and perhaps, the cycle of life itself. Intimacy is at the heart of this piece. Think about the significance of the bed, a place of rest, dreams, and perhaps also of birth and death. Lacombe’s choice of material, wood, adds to the sense of warmth and connection to the earth. As you consider ‘Existence,’ reflect on how it invites us to contemplate our place in the natural order and the intimate moments that shape our lives. The artwork is more than a decorative object; it's an invitation to reflect on the human condition.