Theo Brauner 

Victor Brauner painted "Theo Brauner" with oil on cardboard to capture the likeness of his brother. Brauner, born in Romania, was a surrealist painter whose life was deeply affected by the political and social turmoil of Europe in the early 20th century. The textured brushstrokes give the portrait an unfinished quality, yet it conveys a striking sense of intimacy. Brauner's surrealist leanings, coupled with his Romanian Jewish heritage, put him on the margins of society. He was part of a community that would be increasingly at risk during World War II. As such, in this image, what is visible is a tender portrayal of an individual against the backdrop of impending crisis. The work eschews traditional, academic portraiture, instead presenting a modern vision that blurs the lines between representation and abstraction. Brauner imbues his brother with humanity. As a result, the portrait invites us to reflect on the complexities of identity and the human condition.