Geta of Antoninus 1680 - 1731

Editor: So, here we have Jan Goeree's "Geta of Antoninus," a pen and ink drawing on toned paper from around 1680 to 1731. It's quite dramatic! I immediately pick up a feeling of violence. What do you see in this piece, someone caught between the weight of history and a deeply personal story? Curator: That drama is absolutely key. It’s interesting you pick up on a personal story – I see it as theatrical. Imagine this: it's a stage. Classic Baroque drama. Goeree isn't just drawing; he's choreographing a moment of high tension. What grabs me is the statue looming in the background – Geta of Antoninus himself as if judging the squabble. Does it make you consider the public versus the private here? Editor: Oh, I like that thought - like the artist intended for that public image to give a different context to what we see below! It also looks like a family quarrel in the foreground. Were these drawings meant as studies? Curator: Exactly! Family squabbles with enormous implications, of course. As for Goeree’s process, you’re spot on! Many artists at the time did similar preliminary sketches. He uses ink to make everything, including shades of gray, which he gets with incredible strokes. The light isn't just light; it’s a spotlight focusing our attention. Can you see that? Editor: Yes, definitely - the ink washes really give it depth. Looking at this, I’m starting to think differently about historical drawings. It isn't just a history lesson. There's personal storytelling here as well, perhaps. Curator: Indeed, they’re alive with the artist’s interpretation. We glimpse their thoughts through this. Perhaps they knew about family tension? Food for thought! Editor: Thanks! This look at Goeree definitely has changed my perspective! Curator: And you've shifted mine as well. Here’s to the drama in the details.