Description
The painting was an important work in Munch’s project The Frieze of Life. In creating the painting, Munch was allegedly inspired by the Helge Rode play Dansen gaar, of which Munch kept a copy in his personal library. This painting clearly reflects Munch’s ambivalence towards the women in his life.
Olaf Schoul purchased the painting in Oslo in 1910, immediately presenting it to the National Gallery.
Bibliography
The Dance of Life (painting), https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=The_Dance_of_Life_(painting)&oldid=1044624958 (last visited Aug. 4, 2022).