Still Life with Petroleum Lamp 1907

Curator: Alexej von Jawlensky's "Still Life with Petroleum Lamp," painted in 1907, resides here at the Städel Museum. Jawlensky, of course, was a key figure in German Expressionism. Editor: My immediate reaction is one of… intensity. The bold color blocks and visible brushstrokes seem almost violently applied, radiating an undeniable energy. It feels emotionally charged. Curator: Indeed. The application of oil paint is far from subtle. Consider how the composition is structured— a rather rudimentary geometric construction. A clear juxtaposition exists between the cylindrical body and dome top against the looser, chromatic field around the lamp. What readings might we offer on the object? Editor: The lamp itself, in this context, seems to be less a functional object and more a symbolic anchor. Petroleum lamps, traditionally, signify domesticity, but given the early 20th century date, a lamp could also signify a turning away from modern advancements. The brushstrokes even give an aura-like sense of it as a sacred object—perhaps representing the lingering warmth of traditional life against modernity. Curator: Fascinating! Look closer, too, at how Jawlensky rejects photographic naturalism for a deeper engagement with form and color. His expressive distortions disrupt traditional perspective, forcing us to reconsider our assumptions about visual representation. You notice that subtle interplay of color and structure, I presume? Editor: Absolutely. The monochrome background seems to purposefully flatten the space, pushing the lamp forward, rendering it almost as a forceful presence. In an art world gradually being bathed in electric light, choosing to paint such a scene invites reflection on change. Curator: Such evocative interpretations of Jawlensky's object. Thank you for joining me. Editor: A pleasure. The painting clearly presents such potent symbolism through such overt formalism—it cannot help but invite inquiry!