“The Nightmare” by Henry Fuseli probes the shadowy recesses of the psyche where sex and fear converge in a forbidden tryst. The exact meaning of the painting has been the subject of impassioned speculation for centuries, but the work’s wickedly erotic innuendo, menacing overtones and title imply that the slumbering woman pictured is besieged by overwhelming terror. Before creating this work, Fuseli (1747 – 1825) garnered respect for his powerful scenes from Shakespeare and Milton, which were exhibited at London’s Royal Academy. He wagered his entire reputation when he unveiled “The Nightmare,” which ignited controversy and fascination, firmly establishing Fuseli's artistic prowess and becoming his most famous painting.

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