Northrup R. Knox, Chairman, Marine Midland Bank, New York, New York 

Curator: Alright, let’s talk about Daniel Greene's portrait of Northrup R. Knox. I wonder what worlds unfolded in the artist’s imagination while they stood face to face. Editor: Greene’s painting depicts Knox, Chairman of Marine Midland Bank, and has a sense of established traditionalism to it, contrasting between Knox’s suit and the wild, nebulous background. I see a modern man in a rapidly changing world. How do you interpret the choices Greene made when composing the painting? Curator: A delicious question! It seems to me Greene has masterfully balanced the concrete with the abstract, doesn’t it? That vivid, almost dreamlike background clashes deliciously with Knox's sharp, tailored suit and the realism of his face. I wonder if that's meant to evoke the tensions and creative possibilities inherent in high finance, a world of tangible assets shaped by intangible forces, or perhaps a visual metaphor for the immense power contained within Knox himself? Editor: Interesting take! It's almost like the background reflects the immense possibilities - and perhaps risks - within the banking world. The lion statue on the left definitely feels significant too. Curator: Ah, the guardian! Don't you think that quiet watchful lion whispers of tradition, strength, maybe even a hint of vulnerability nestled amongst the smoke and mirrors of high finance. I love how Greene places it just off center; nothing's quite as stable as it seems, is it? And he subtly reflects back at us what could come to pass. Editor: I hadn't considered that aspect, thank you. The work has so many contrasting elements! Curator: Yes, it really seems Greene used many forms of contrast to help reflect the spirit of this influential man. What a compelling conversation!