Wilhelm Trübner 1913

Lovis Corinth etched this portrait of Wilhelm Trübner in 1913, capturing the essence of the man through a dense network of lines. Look closely, and you'll notice that the artist’s gaze is averted, his expression pensive, almost melancholic. This introspective gaze echoes across centuries, reminiscent of ancient Roman portrait busts, where the subject’s inner life was as crucial as their external features. The absence of a beard is striking, a departure from traditional markers of wisdom and authority. Interestingly, the clean-shaven face can be seen throughout history in depictions of enlightened thinkers or revolutionaries. Corinth, consciously or unconsciously, taps into this visual lexicon, connecting Trübner to a lineage of figures who challenged conventions. This subtle act of visual quotation reveals the cyclical nature of symbols, resurfacing in new contexts, each time tinged with the weight of history and the potential for transformation. The psychological resonance of this portrait lies in its ability to evoke a sense of quiet contemplation, inviting us to reflect on the enduring power of the human spirit.