The Harlequin’s Carnival

Joan Miró was a brilliant painter who created one of the most iconic surrealist paintings of all time on his first attempt.

Harlequin's Carnival is a vibrant, joyful picture that Miró described as being inspired by a dazzling dream scene.

The 1924 picture depicts a scene of inanimate objects participating in what appears to be a fun-filled carnival. Many of the things appear to be moving, perhaps dancing or marching, and weird beings appear to be involved in the expedition.

Many art aficionados and critics may regard the piece as highly lively, yet that was the driving cause behind its popularity.

Historians note that Miró's work was to be included in an art exhibition in Paris, France, which would be attended by many surrealists at the time.

Miró expected his work would be overlooked by artists such as Dali, Masson, and Redon.

To his amazement, the painting was a smashing success, with many artists and critics in attendance gushing over the whimsical, humorous piece of genius.

Date created: 1924-1925
Dimensions: 66 × 90.5 centimeters (26 × 35.62 inches)
Location: Albright–Knox Art Gallery, Buffalo, United States