Official reproduction of Edvard Munch's work Metabolism. Life and Death, (1898-1899) from MUNCH's collection.
Metabolism. Life and Death (1898–99) is a monumental and deeply symbolic work by Edvard Munch, exploring themes of existence, regeneration, and the cyclical nature of life. At its center, a naked man and woman face each other on either side of a tree trunk, their forms set against a dark forest and a distant shoreline. The intertwined tree roots below them suggest both the sustenance and inevitability of life’s processes, while a faint silhouette of a town rises in the background, connecting the natural world to human existence.
The title, Metabolism, draws from the scientific concept of transformation through death and renewal, paralleling Munch’s ongoing exploration of life’s fragility and continuity. Originally titled Adam and Eve, the painting evokes biblical references, yet reimagines the story of humanity’s origins in a more symbolic and universal context. Absent are the serpent or the forbidden fruit; instead, the focus is on the shared human experience of love, loss, and survival.
This work was central to Munch’s Frieze of Life series, acting as a bridge between the intimate emotions of works like Ashes and the grand existential questions posed by pieces such as The Dance of Life. The imagery of the embryonic forms emerging from the roots further emphasizes the perpetual cycle of life and death.
Printed on museum-quality, FSC-certified paper (210 g/m²), this fine art print retains the depth and vibrancy of Munch’s original creation. Available in multiple sizes, it is perfect for creating a contemplative and artistic atmosphere in 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:
- Title:
Stoffveksling. Liv og død (NO)
Metabolism (EN)
- Date: 1898-1899
- Classification: Paintings
- Material/technique: Oil on canvas
- Owner / Collection: Munchmuseet
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.