Cigar Store Figure c. 1937

Editor: So here we have "Cigar Store Figure" painted around 1937 by Florian Rokita. It seems to be done with watercolors. The pose is kind of jaunty, maybe even a bit absurd. What catches your eye in this drawing? Curator: Ah, this piece. For me, it's all about echoes. I feel whispers of the old world – almost like a theatrical character plucked straight from a Shakespearean comedy. Think about what a cigar store figure represents. It's advertising, right? But with a heavy dose of theatricality. And the green…that deep forest green calls to mind romantic landscapes, adventure...even swashbuckling stories. I wonder, was Rokita poking fun at these grandiose figures, turning them into delightful caricatures? Or was it admiration? What do you think? Editor: I hadn’t considered the theatre aspect, that's a great point! He almost does look like he's stepped off a stage. Curator: Absolutely! And notice how Rokita hasn’t shied away from a touch of humour, with that sly grin and that slightly…let’s say ‘optimistic’ moustache! Perhaps there’s a bit of satire mixed in there, but delivered with such charm! It’s that duality, that mix of tradition and a twinkle in the eye, that makes this drawing so engaging, wouldn't you say? Editor: Yeah, I see that now! The humor definitely makes it less of a straight portrait and more of a character study. Thanks for pointing that out! Curator: My pleasure! Isn't it amazing how a splash of watercolour can tell a whole story, filled with echoes, laughter, and perhaps a hint of nostalgia? Editor: It really is! I’ll definitely look at watercolours differently now.