Stern Piece c. 1939

Curator: First impressions? It's stately. It actually reminds me of, like, being in an old courthouse. Editor: That’s astute. We're looking at "Stern Piece," believed to have been created around 1939 by Sadie Berman. She employed colored pencil and watercolor, which gives it a softer feel than you might expect given the subject. Curator: Soft, yes. I suppose my "stately" assessment comes from the prominent eagle and shield. There is so much historical and political charge packed into such images. I would argue, especially considering when this piece was made. The war clouds were already gathering in Europe at this time, a prelude to full-scale conflict. What weight might those symbols have carried in her mind, I wonder? Editor: Perhaps, this wasn't intended as overtly political statement, though, but rather a reflection on heritage and a yearning for stability? The piece is also subtly optimistic. The cool, pale background highlights the burnished gold of the leaves and the bronze eagle, creating a radiant effect. I also appreciate that Berman chose softer materials like watercolor and colored pencil to create this impression. Curator: Agreed, this artwork doesn't strike me as overly dogmatic. The watercolor gives it a delicate, almost dreamlike quality. Do you think this was perhaps a study for a larger work, maybe even a mural? It certainly has the feeling of a maquette. Editor: Interesting thought! Its subdued colors make it less assertive and the soft textures offer a gentle nod to history. The eye is drawn to the eagle’s shield, emblazoned with a stylized representation of the American flag. Curator: Absolutely. And this symbol would certainly have resonated strongly, evoking feelings of patriotism, but maybe also unease with all the isolationist talk swirling at the time. Symbols from cultural memory, constantly renegotiated and layered with new meaning, are powerful things. Editor: Yes. And even without delving into symbolism or political context, one can simply appreciate the gentle blend of color, the play of textures and the balanced design. Curator: That’s right. Editor: Thank you. Curator: Thank you.