Gold Horn 1910

Editor: This is Theodor Kittelsen's "Gold Horn" from 1910, an oil painting. The rider with the horn gives it an exciting, adventurous mood. The colors are muted, lending a sense of urgency and mystery, making the whole thing feel almost like a chase scene. What do you see in this piece? Curator: It's interesting that you pick up on a feeling of urgency. Considering its historical context, it feels more like an idealized portrayal of nature that's very romantic. But this image should not be regarded as an image "of nature", but rather, about society at the time. Notice the way the horse and rider are dramatically highlighted against the dark forest; does it remind you of anything? Editor: Well, there’s definitely a strong contrast, like a stage performance! The subject is illuminated for everyone to observe! Curator: Exactly. Now, consider this was made in 1910. Photography had gained ground and changed how people understood realism. This artist might be embracing theatricality to emphasize the act of seeing, and the values and ideas of society displayed on an observable and accessible image. Also, look how nature looks romanticized but imposing - even menacing, in places. Does it suggest a tension of industrializing society against what still exists as the natural world? Editor: So, the "Gold Horn" isn’t just a cool fantasy painting; it reflects the society’s changing view of nature because of new artistic media like photography. That really gives me a whole new lens to appreciate it through! Thanks. Curator: Precisely. Art never exists in a vacuum. Considering those external forces really brings a richer experience of the artwork.