Page opening 3 from "The Heavenly Palaces: Merkabah" 1990

Editor: This is Page opening 3 from "The Heavenly Palaces: Merkabah" by Anselm Kiefer. It's monochrome and quite large. The textured brickwork leads the eye to a vanishing point. What strikes me is the contrast between the rigid geometry and the ethereal atmosphere. What do you see? Curator: Indeed, the rigid structure you mention is quite compelling. Notice how the artist utilizes the interplay of light and shadow to disrupt the expected order. The linear perspective, though present, is almost obscured, creating a tension between depth and flatness. The subtle gradations of tone further enhance this ambiguity, defying easy categorization. Editor: It's almost as if the materials themselves are fighting against the composition. Curator: Precisely. The materiality of the brick, its inherent texture and weight, is set against the illusionistic depth created by perspective. This is a fascinating example of how formal elements can generate complex meanings. Editor: I see that tension now. Thank you for pointing that out! Curator: My pleasure. These subtle considerations are always rewarding.