Lucretia 

Adrian Gottlieb's 'Lucretia' is rendered with oil on canvas and immerses us in a tenebrous world, a world where light seems to struggle against prevailing darkness. The composition, dominated by deep, almost impenetrable blacks, evokes a palpable sense of drama and introspection. The figure of Lucretia emerges, illuminated with striking clarity, her features highlighted by a gentle light that accentuates her delicate skin and striking red hair. This artistic choice to light only some elements emphasizes the psychological intensity of the piece. The tension here is palpable, created by the juxtaposition of light and shadow. Note how the artist uses light to pick out details of the knife, the patterns on her robe, and the vulnerability in Lucretia's face. It’s a semiotic play where the visual elements aren’t just seen but read. Here the artist invites us to contemplate not just the aesthetic but the cultural codes that underpin our understanding of virtue, sacrifice, and representation.