Goetz von Berlichingen 1930

Editor: Here we have Lovis Corinth's 1930 etching, "Goetz von Berlichingen." It's a powerful portrait, but something about the sketchy lines and stark contrast creates a really intense, almost troubled atmosphere. What stands out to you in this piece? Curator: Troubled is a great way to describe it, I think! Corinth really captured the essence of this historical figure. Von Berlichingen was a bit of a rebellious knight with an iron hand. You can almost feel his defiance radiating from the print, wouldn’t you say? The loose etching style almost mirrors his tumultuous life. I wonder if Corinth saw a bit of himself in that rebellious spirit? What do you think about the historical reference? Editor: That’s interesting, I didn't think about the connection between the artist and the subject! I suppose the etching, being a print, is more accessible, like von Berlichingen trying to be a man of the people perhaps. Curator: Exactly! Prints were revolutionary for that reason! And think about Corinth’s later life; grappling with illness, reflecting on his mortality. Von Berlichingen similarly faced adversity and found ways to persevere. Maybe it is that strength that really spoke to him, or at least me, eh? Editor: I can definitely see that now. Looking at the piece again, it feels less like a historical portrait and more like an exploration of resilience and maybe even a shared kindred spirit between the artist and subject, which I had missed entirely at the start. Thanks for that perspective. Curator: My pleasure, it's always wonderful to find unexpected depths within a piece and appreciate the story behind the art!