An Der Quelle 

Franz von Stuck made this painting, An Der Quelle, with oil on canvas. Von Stuck coaxed the oil paint into varied textures, from the smoothness of the nymph's skin to the craggy surfaces of the rocks. The thickness of the impasto in areas like the satyr's hair gives a tactile quality, while the nymph's dress has these sheer qualities, achieved through subtle gradations of color and smooth blending, adding a sense of realism. The process of painting with oils allowed for layering and corrections, crucial for achieving the painting's evocative atmosphere. The artist likely used brushes of different sizes to apply the paint, and the canvas itself provides a textured ground that contributes to the overall visual effect. The way in which it was made, the relationship between artist, material, and subject is crucial. It bridges the space between the artist's studio and the broader cultural and artistic landscape, enriching our understanding of its meaning.