Der Internist Professor Samuel Stern 1876 - 1877

Editor: So, this is Anton Romako’s "Der Internist Professor Samuel Stern," painted with oil on canvas sometime between 1876 and 1877. I’m immediately struck by the intensity of the gaze and the contrast between the lighter face and the dark clothing and background. How do you approach interpreting this work? Curator: The interest, from a Formalist position, resides primarily in the relation between these pictorial elements. Observe how the brushstrokes themselves generate form: loose and gestural in the background, becoming more controlled and descriptive around the face, drawing our eye to the sitter's expression. This play with varying paint application enlivens the composition. Do you see how the use of impasto highlights the forehead, creating a focal point that enhances the perceived intelligence of the subject? Editor: Yes, definitely. It’s almost as if Romako uses the texture of the paint to sculpt the professor's face, bringing out his character. Curator: Precisely. And the limited palette contributes to a feeling of depth and seriousness. Note how the subtle gradations within the black of the coat suggest the volume and form beneath, avoiding a flat, two-dimensional reading. It’s a calculated dance between representation and the inherent qualities of the medium. Editor: I hadn't considered how much the color contributes to the overall impact. Focusing on these aspects makes the painting feel more intentional, more carefully constructed than I initially thought. Curator: That's the power of formalism: attending to the internal language of the artwork. Each element, from brushstroke to color, speaks volumes. Editor: It really sheds light on the choices the artist made and how they affect our viewing experience. Thank you for that perspective.