Official reproduction of Edvard Munch's work Harpy, (1899) from MUNCH's collection.
Edvard Munch’s Harpy (1899) is a striking lithographic print that reinterprets the mythological harpy—a female bird of prey—into a haunting and ominous presence. In classical mythology, harpies were winged creatures that embodied stormy winds and divine retribution. Munch transforms this symbol into a vulture-like figure, its sharp talons gripping a skeletal male, reinforcing themes of power, domination, and vulnerability.
The femme fatale archetype was a prevalent motif in late 19th-century art and literature, embodying the seductive yet destructive force of female sexuality. Similar figures can be found in the works of Oscar Wilde, Henrik Ibsen, and Gustav Klimt. In Harpy, Munch explores this concept by depicting a woman as both alluring and menacing, a creature whose influence is inescapable.
This work also reflects the broader cultural debates of Munch’s time, particularly concerning gender roles and morality. The bohemian circles in Kristiania (now Oslo) championed free love while simultaneously grappling with conservative attitudes toward women’s rights. Philosophers such as Otto Weininger influenced these discussions with theories that framed the dynamic between men and women as a perpetual struggle, where women were seen as instinct-driven and manipulative.
Munch’s personal relationships with women were complex and often tumultuous. Throughout his career, he alternated between portraying women as ethereal, nurturing figures and as forces of psychological unease. Harpy belongs to the latter category, embodying his anxieties and fears about female power. Alongside works like Madonna, The Sick Child, and Puberty, Harpy reveals Munch’s deep engagement with themes of sexuality, gender, and existential tension—issues that resonated throughout his art.
Our durable wooden-framed posters arrive ready to hang, printed on heavyweight white matte paper with a smooth, elegant finish—crafted for lasting quality.
Made with FSC-certified paper (210 g/m²), this fine art print preserves the depth and vibrancy of Munch’s original work. Available in multiple sizes, it brings a refined and artistic presence to any space.
Features:
✔️ Officially licensed fine art print from MUNCH
✔️ Printed on premium, eco-friendly paper
✔️ Available in sizes: 30x40 cm, 50x70 cm, 70x100 cm
✔️ Option to purchase with or without a frame
✔️ A meaningful gift for art enthusiasts and admirers of Munch’s work
About the original:
- Comment: Lithographic crayon
- Title:
Harpy (NO)
Harpy (EN)
Harpyie (DE) - Date: 1899
- Classification: Lithography
- Material/technique:
Colour lithograph - Owner / Collection: Munch Museum
About our prints
Quality
Matte Paper Poster:
- Paper Finishing: Matte, smooth, non-reflective surface.
- Paper Weight: 200 gsm, durable and long-lasting.
- Environmental Impact: FSC-certified or equivalent paper, supporting sustainable practices.
- Our heavy-weight, white, premium matte paper has a natural, smooth uncoated finish that feels luxurious to the touch.
Framed Matte Paper Poster:
- Ready-to-hang: Includes hanging kit, ready to hang directly on the wall.
- Frame Material: Durable pine wood.
- Frame Measurements: 20-25mm thick, 10-14mm wide.
- Paper Weight: 200 gsm, thickness: 0.22 mm.
- Paper Finishing: Matte, smooth, non-reflective surface.
- Protection: Shatterproof plexiglass protects the poster.
- Sustainable Paper: FSC-certified materials or equivalent.
Printing
Printing and framing is done by our print partner at a printing facility close to the customer. Because all posters are made to order, all sales are final and non-refundable.
Shipping
We are currently shipping to The EU and Norway.
Shipping costs and delivery time is calculated at the checkout .
Read more here.
Was you order damaged upon arrival? Please send us an email with a description and pictures of the damage on the box and on the product, and we will help you resolve the issue.
Our selection
This is the only place you will find reproductions approved by the MUNCH Museum. Many of the works offered through this store are exclusive and not available anywhere else.
We regularly introduce new motifs from our vast collection. If you’ve fallen in love with a specific artwork and would like a reproduction, feel free to contact us, and we will gladly make it available for you.
