Page opening 6 from "The Heavenly Palaces: Merkabah" 1990

Editor: This is "Page opening 6 from 'The Heavenly Palaces: Merkabah'" by Anselm Kiefer. It feels like looking at a decaying photograph. What historical context shapes your view of this work? Curator: Kiefer’s art often grapples with Germany's past, especially the unaddressed traumas of World War II. This piece, seemingly abstract, fits into that larger project. Consider the ‘Merbahah’ title, evoking Jewish mysticism. How does this interplay with Kiefer's German identity, and the art world's perception of German artists dealing with such themes? Editor: It's interesting how he uses those heavy themes. So, do you think it's more about Germany or Jewish Mysticism? Curator: It's about the tension between them. It's about cultural memory and the complicated legacy of representation. The act of displaying such works forces a dialogue, doesn't it? Editor: Absolutely. It makes me rethink the purpose of art. Curator: And its power to confront difficult histories.