Sadak in Search of the Waters of Oblivion by John Martin. A tiny human figure in a red wrap clings to a jagged rock ledge above a dark, rushing waterfall, dwarfed by massive, glowing mountain peaks.

Sadak in Search of the Waters of Oblivion

John Martin

1812 · Oil Paint, Canvas

A dramatic Romantic masterpiece depicting a lone traveler's struggle against an overwhelming, sublime landscape of fire and stone.

$129

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Where it works

A weightier piece with lively force with softened warm notes — holds a formal wall with confidence.

Often works in
Library · Study · Living Room
Placement
Strongest where a vertical wall can take more presence
Walls
Benefits from light or mid-tone surroundings
Color notes
Charcoal black, Rich brown

About the piece

Painted in 1812 by John Martin, this iconic work is a pinnacle of Romanticism's fascination with the 'sublime.' It illustrates a scene from the 'Tales of the Genii,' where the protagonist Sadak must traverse a terrifying volcanic landscape and scale immense cataracts to reach the fabled waters of forgetfulness.

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