Fyodor's Second Marriage (Book I: The History of a Family, facing p.10) 1949

Fritz Eichenberg created this illustration for "Fyodor's Second Marriage" using wood engraving, a technique known for its sharp contrasts and fine detail. The composition centres on three figures, each rendered with meticulous attention to texture and form. Notice how Eichenberg uses light and shadow to sculpt the characters, creating a palpable sense of depth. The leering man is contrasted by the solemn, composed demeanor of the woman standing before him. This juxtaposition isn’t just narrative; it's a study in the semiotics of expression and the visual codes of power. Eichenberg’s technique reflects a broader engagement with structuralist ideas. He destabilizes conventional notions of beauty, highlighting the grotesque alongside the graceful. The effect challenges us to question fixed meanings and to consider how art can disrupt traditional values. Finally, note the expressive distortion of the man's features, achieved through the precise carving of the wood. This manipulation of form serves not only an aesthetic purpose but also enhances the narrative, underscoring the themes of moral ambiguity.